JP7769382B2 - gaming machines - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an amusement machine.

In gaming machines, when a game ball enters the start slot, a special pattern is displayed in a changing pattern on the pattern display, and when the jackpot pattern is displayed stationary as a pattern indicating the result of the jackpot lottery, a jackpot game is played in which the normally closed jackpot entry slot is opened, and a large number of prize balls can be won by the game ball entering the jackpot entry slot during this jackpot game.

When the special symbols are displayed in a variable manner, game effects are produced by the images (including videos) displayed on the image display, the sounds output from the speakers, and the lighting/flashing of light sources such as lamps (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2019-155132

Conventionally, there is still room for improvement in game presentation to increase the interest in games.
An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of executing game presentations that can increase the enjoyment of the game.

The present invention has the following configuration: Note that the reference numerals indicate an example of the correspondence with the components shown in the drawings to facilitate understanding of the present invention, and do not limit the technical scope of the present invention.
The gaming machine (1) of the present invention comprises a game control means (110m) for controlling the progress of the game, an operation means (7) operated by a player, and a performance execution means (130m) capable of executing the performance display on a display means (16) according to the progress of the game and the performance operation of a performance device (17) between a retreat position and an advance position , and the game control means (110m) is a value derived based on the amount of game value given to the player according to the progress of the game and the amount of game value used, and the result of the game is obtained after the power is turned on. and a game information updating means for updating a specific value, which is an increase in the game value from a reference value when the game value has been reduced the most, and a game stopping means for stopping the variation of the special symbols and stopping the progress of the game when a specific condition is met in which the specific value updated by the game information updating means reaches a predetermined value , and the effect execution means (130m) performs predetermined operation effects (16h, 16H1, 16AH, 16VH, 16GH, 16H2) suggesting the operation mode of the operation means (7). In accordance with the game information, predetermined notification effects (CK, CY, CS) and a role effect in which the role effect (17) performs a performance operation can be executed, and in a first event in the progress of the game, a first operation effect (16h) is executed, and then a second operation effect (16H1) is executed, and in a second event in the progress of the game, a third operation effect (16H2) is executed, and when the specific condition is satisfied during the execution of the third operation effect (16H2 ) , ) becomes invisible to the player, and if the specific condition is met during the execution of the second operation presentation (16H1) , the second operation presentation (16H1) continues in a state where it can be seen by the player, and if the specific condition is met while the special device presentation is being performed during the execution of the first operation presentation (16h), the special device (17) is returned to the retracted position using specific operation data different from the operation data used when the special device presentation is normally performed, and the first operation presentation (16h) becomes invisible to the player .

The present invention makes it possible to increase the enjoyment of games.

FIG. 1 is a front view of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an oblique view of the rear side of the gaming machine. A cross-sectional view of the second large prize winning device. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a control system of the gaming machine. FIG. FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining details of a performance indicator. FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an image control unit. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a jackpot determination table. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a special symbol determination table. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a first-class jackpot game control table. A figure showing a large prize opening opening/closing control table for a first-class large prize game. 1A is a diagram showing a small win game control table, a small win game large prize opening/closing control table, and a small win game specific area opening/closing control table. FIG. A figure showing a second type jackpot game control table. A figure showing a big prize opening opening/closing control table for second type big prize games. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a game status setting table. A figure showing a variation pattern determination table for non-time-shortened gaming states. A figure showing a variation pattern determination table for non-time-saving game state (remaining reservation of second special pattern). A figure showing a variation pattern determination table for a time-saving game state. A figure showing a fluctuation pattern determination table for the time-saving game state (final time-saving fluctuation). This figure shows (a) a winning determination table for normal symbols, (b) a stopping symbol determination table for normal symbols, (c) a variation pattern determination table for normal symbols, and (d) a table for determining the opening mode of the second starting port. 10 is a flowchart of main processing by the main control board. 10 is a flowchart of an RWM clear process performed by the main control board. 10 is a flowchart of a timer interrupt process by the main control board. 10 is a flowchart of an input control process performed by the main control board. This is a flowchart of the first start port detection switch input processing by the main control board. This is a flowchart of the second start port detection switch input processing by the main control board. 10 is a flowchart of gate detection switch input processing by the main control board. 10 is a flowchart of specific area detection switch input processing by the main control board. 10 is a flowchart of a reference value counter update process performed by the main control board. 10 is a flowchart of the special diagram special electric control processing by the main control board. 10 is a flowchart of the special symbol memory determination process by the main control board. 10 is a flowchart of the jackpot determination process by the main control board. This is a flowchart of the special chart variation pattern determination process by the main control board. 10 is a flowchart of special pattern change processing by the main control board. 10 is a flowchart of the special symbol stopping process by the main control board. 10 is a flowchart of a round start flag determination process performed by the main control board. 10 is a flowchart of a round start process performed by the main control board. 10 is a flowchart of the jackpot game processing by the main control board. 10 is a flowchart of small win game processing by the main control board. This is a flowchart of the second type jackpot game transition process. 10 is a flowchart of the jackpot game ending process by the main control board. 10 is a flowchart of the normal power control process by the main control board. This is a flowchart of the normal pattern change processing by the main control board. 10 is a flowchart of auxiliary game processing by the main control board. 10 is a flowchart of a performance display data setting process performed by the main control board. 10 is a flowchart of an abnormality determination process performed by the main control board. 10 is a flowchart of a magnetic error determination process performed by the main control board. 10 is a flowchart of a radio wave error determination process performed by the main control board. 10 is a flowchart of a complete function operation determination process performed by the main control board. This is a slump graph showing the relationship between the difference in balls and the reference value counter. This is a slump graph showing the relationship between the difference in balls and the reference value counter. 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of types of signals output from a reporting terminal board. 10 is a flowchart of main processing by the performance control unit. 10 is a flowchart of timer interrupt processing by the performance control unit. 10 is a flowchart of a command analysis process performed by the performance control unit. 10 is a flowchart of a command analysis process performed by the performance control unit. 10 is a flowchart of a process for determining a variable presentation pattern by a presentation control unit. 10 is a flowchart of the processing performed by the performance control unit while waiting for the combination device to operate. 10 is a flowchart of the process of selecting the effect of the linked winning device operation by the effect control unit. 10 is a flowchart of a complete function pre-activation notification process. 10 is a flowchart of a complete function activation notification process. 10A and 10B are explanatory diagrams relating to the notification form and execution period of the notification regarding the complete function. A figure showing whether or not the execution of the complete function operation warning (advance notice) continues when an error occurs during the execution of the complete function operation warning (advance notice). 10 is a flowchart of a main process performed by an image control unit. 10 is a flowchart of an image pattern setting process performed by an image control unit. 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of a complete function activation warning notification image. 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of a complete function activation warning notification image. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a display example of a complete function activation advance notification image. 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of a complete function activation notification image. This figure shows an example of the operation presentation that is executed when a jackpot occurs in normal mode. This figure shows an example of the operation presentation that is executed when a small win occurs in the time-saving mode and when a big win occurs via a small win. A figure showing an example of the operation presentation executed when a jackpot is achieved in time-saving mode. A figure showing an example of the operation presentation executed when transitioning from time-saving mode to normal mode. This is a timing chart when the complete function activation condition is met while the jackpot symbol is displayed stopped. This is a diagram showing an example of the presentation when the complete function activation conditions are met while the jackpot pattern is displayed stopped. This is a timing chart when the complete function activation condition is met while a small winning symbol is stopped and displayed. This is a diagram showing an example of the presentation when the complete function activation conditions are met while a small winning symbol is displayed. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a presentation when the complete function activation condition is met during opening play. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a presentation when the complete function activation condition is met during opening play. This is a timing chart when the complete function activation condition is met during a round of play. A figure showing an example of the presentation when the complete function activation conditions are met during a round of play. This figure shows an example of the presentation when the complete function activation condition is met while the left-hit image is displayed.

This embodiment will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings.

(Configuration of gaming machine)
First, the configuration of the gaming machine 1 will be specifically described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. Figure 1 is an example of a front view of the gaming machine 1 in this embodiment. Figure 2 is a perspective view of the rear side of the gaming machine 1 in this embodiment.

The pachinko gaming machine serving as gaming machine 1 has an outer frame 2A attached to the island structure of the gaming hall and an opening/closing frame 2B (inner frame) attached so that it can be opened and closed, and an opening/closing door 3 attached so that it can be opened and closed to the opening/closing frame 2B. A window 3a is formed in the opening/closing door 3, and a transparent plate 3b is attached to this window 3a. The left end of the opening/closing door 3 is supported on the left end of the opening/closing frame 2B so that it can rotate freely around a vertical axis, and a key cylinder 3c is attached to the right end of the opening/closing door 3, which locks the opening/closing door 3 to the opening/closing frame 2. A game board 4 is attached to the opening/closing frame 2B, and a game area 4a is formed between the game board 4 and the transparent plate 3b in front of it, allowing game balls to flow down, and this game area 4a is opened and closed by the opening/closing door 3.

The door 3 is equipped with a frame lighting device 27 equipped with multiple decorative lamps (LEDs), and a storage tray 5 (receptacle) for storing game balls is provided below the window 3a. The storage tray 5 is equipped with a performance button device 6A and a selection button device 6B, which function as input devices for performing decision and selection operations related to various performances, side by side.

The audio output devices 9 are installed in two locations above the opening and closing door 3, and output background music (BGM), sound effects (SE), etc. to create musical and audio effects.

The multiple decorative lamps (LEDs) of the frame lighting device 27 are installed around the periphery of the window 3a, and the lighting effects are created by changing the direction and color of the light emitted by each of the multiple decorative lamps (LEDs). The frame lighting device 27 also has an alarm lamp (LED) that is controlled to light up/blink when the opening/closing door 3 is opened or a payout abnormality occurs, such as when game balls cannot be paid out from the payout device 100 (see Figure 2).

The effect button device 6A is equipped with an effect button 6a that can perform a decision operation (operation input) and button operation effects, an effect button detection switch 6b (see Figure 4) for detecting the operation of the effect button 6a, a button drive motor 6c (see Figure 4) for changing the effect button 6a between a normal state and a protruding state positioned higher than the normal state, a button vibration motor 6d (see Figure 4) for changing the effect button 6a between a normal state and a vibration state in which it vibrates in a predetermined manner, and a button light-emitting LED 6e (see Figure 4) for changing the effect button 6a between a light-off state and a light-emitting state in which it emits light in a predetermined manner. By operating the effect button 6a, the player can input predetermined information into the gaming machine 1.

The selection button device 6B is equipped with cross key buttons 6f (hereinafter referred to as the cross key) (up button, down button, right button, left button) as selection buttons that can be used to perform operations such as selection, and a cross key detection switch 6g (see Figure 4) for detecting the operation of the cross key, allowing the player to input specified information into the gaming machine 1 by operating the cross key.

A launch handle 7 is attached to the lower right side of the storage tray 5. When the launch handle 7 is rotated, a game ball introduced from the storage tray 5 to the launch position is launched. If multiple game balls are stored in the storage tray 5, multiple game balls are launched consecutively at intervals of approximately 0.6 seconds. The launched game balls are guided by a guide rail 8 and introduced to the top of the play area 4a. The launch of game balls can be temporarily stopped by the player operating a launch stop button (not shown) provided on the launch handle 7.

As shown in Figure 1, the game area 4a is equipped with a number of obstacle nails K, a windmill F, a first starting opening 10, a starting opening device 11 with an openable second starting opening 11a, a gate 12, a large prize opening device 13 with an openable large prize opening 13a, a specific prize opening device 14 with an openable specific prize opening 14a, and multiple general prize openings 21 arranged as shown.

The first start gate 10, gate 12, and general winning gate 21 are each equipped with a first start gate switch 10a, gate detection switch 12a, and general winning gate switch 21a, which detect game balls that enter the gate (see Figure 4). Note that in this embodiment, the terms "entering the gate" and "winning the gate" are intended to include "passing through."

The starting port device 11 has a second starting port 11a, an opening/closing member 11b that opens and closes the second starting port 11a, a second starting port detection switch 11c that detects game balls that have entered the second starting port 11a, and a second starting port opening/closing solenoid 11d that drives the opening/closing member 11b to open and close. The second starting port 11a can be operated by the opening/closing member 11b and the second starting port opening/closing solenoid 11d between a closed state in which it is difficult or impossible for game balls to enter, and an open state in which it is easy for game balls to enter.

The first large prize opening device 13 has a first large prize opening 13a, an opening/closing member 13b that opens and closes the first large prize opening 13a, a first large prize opening detection switch 13c that detects a game ball that has entered the first large prize opening 13a, and a first large prize opening opening/closing solenoid 13d that drives the opening/closing member 13b to open and close. The first large prize opening 13a can be operated by the opening/closing member 13b and the first large prize opening opening/closing solenoid 13d to switch between a closed state in which it is difficult or impossible for game balls to enter, and an open state in which it is easy for game balls to enter.

The second large prize opening device 14 has a second large prize opening 14a, an opening/closing member 14b that opens and closes the second large prize opening 14a, a second large prize opening detection switch 14c that detects game balls that have entered the second large prize opening 14a, and a second large prize opening opening/closing solenoid 14d that drives the opening/closing member 14b to open and close. The second large prize opening 14a can be operated by the opening/closing member 14b and the second large prize opening opening/closing solenoid 14d between a closed state in which it is difficult or impossible for game balls to enter, and an open state in which it is easy for game balls to enter.

As shown in Figure 3, inside the second large prize opening 14a are provided a second large prize opening detection switch 14c, a specific area 14e through which game balls can pass, a specific area detection switch 14f that detects game balls that have passed through the specific area 14e, a non-specific area 14g through which game balls other than the specific area 14e can pass, and a sorting device 22 that can be operated between an initial state and an operating state so that game balls that have entered the second large prize opening 14a pass through either the specific area 14e or the non-specific area 14g.

The sorting device 22 has a sorting member 22a and a sorting solenoid 22b that drives the sorting member 22a, and when the sorting device 22 is in its initial state, the sorting member 22a is in a position where it can guide a game ball that has entered the second large prize opening 14a to a non-specific area 14g, and when the sorting device 22 is in its operating state, the sorting member 22a is in a position where it can guide a game ball that has entered the second large prize opening 14a to a specific area 14e.
When the game ball that has entered the second big winning opening 14a passes through the specific area 14e, a big win game (a second type big win game) that is an extension of the small win game described below is executed.

In the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment, when a player rotates the launch handle 7 to launch a game ball into the play area 4a, the player can adjust the launch strength of the game ball by the amount of rotation (rotation angle) of the launch handle 7, allowing for so-called "left-handed" or "right-handed" shots. When "left-handed," the game ball falls through the left-handed play area 4a1 located to the left of the center device 15. When "right-handed," the game ball passes through a right-handed shot passage formed above the center device 15, moves to the right-handed play area 4a2 located to the right of the center device 15, and falls downstream of the right-handed play area 4a2.

When a game ball launched into the game area 4a enters one of the multiple winning slots 10, 11a, 13a, 14a, or 21, a set number of game balls (several to a dozen or so) for each winning slot 10, 11a, 13a, 14a, or 21 are paid out as prize balls to the storage tray 5.

If a game ball launched into the game area 4a does not enter any of the multiple winning holes 10, 11a, 13a, 14a, or 21, it is ultimately discharged outside the game area 4a through a discharge hole 28 formed at the most downstream part of the game area 4a.

A first game information display device 19 that displays game information regarding the progress of the game is provided on the lower left outside of the game area 4 a, and the first game information display device 19 is controlled by the main control board 110.
The first game information display device 19 has a plurality of LEDs (light-emitting elements) arranged in four inclined rows along the outer guide rail 8 and the left and bottom edges of the game board 4. These multiple (32) LEDs (light-emitting elements) constitute a first special symbol first display 19a, a second special symbol first display 19b, a normal symbol first display 19c, a first special symbol reserved first display 19d, a second special symbol reserved second display 19e, a normal symbol reserved first display 19f, a right-hit first display 19j, and a setting display 19k.

The first special pattern first display 19a is a variable display for displaying (informing) the result of the first special pattern lottery, which is held on the condition that the gaming ball enters the first starting hole 10.
The second special pattern first display 19b is a variable display for displaying (informing) the result of the second special pattern lottery, which is held on the condition that the gaming ball enters the second starting hole 11a.
The first normal symbol display 19 c is a variable display for displaying (informing) the result of a normal symbol lottery that is conducted on the condition that a gaming ball passes through the gate 12 .

The first special symbol lottery involves obtaining special symbol determination information when a gaming ball enters the first starting hole 10, making a jackpot determination based on the obtained special symbol determination information to determine whether it is a "jackpot," a "small jackpot," or a "miss," and then, based on the determination result, making a first special symbol determination to determine the first special symbol to be displayed in a stopped state on the first special symbol first display 19a.

When the first special symbol lottery is held, the first special symbol first display 19a displays a varying first special symbol, and after a predetermined time has passed, the first special symbol indicating the result of the lottery is displayed as a static display. In other words, the static display of the first special symbol serves as notification of the result of the lottery.

The second special symbol lottery involves obtaining special symbol determination information when a gaming ball enters the second starting hole 11a, determining whether it is a "big hit," a "small hit," or a "miss" based on the obtained special symbol determination information, and then performing a second special symbol determination based on the determination result to determine the second special symbol to be displayed in a stopped state on the second special symbol first display 19b.

When the second special pattern lottery is held, the second special pattern first display 19b displays a variable second special pattern, and after a predetermined time has passed, the second special pattern indicating the result of the lottery is displayed stationary. In other words, the stationary display of the second special pattern serves as notification of the result of the lottery.

The first special pattern first display 19a and the second special pattern first display 19b are each composed of multiple LEDs, and when each special pattern changes, the LED of the corresponding display flashes at a predetermined interval or in a predetermined sequence. When a special pattern is displayed stationary, one or more LEDs light up in a manner indicating the result of each special pattern lottery (hereinafter, the first special pattern lottery and the second special pattern lottery may be collectively referred to as the "special pattern lottery") (a manner indicating the type of special pattern). In other words, the type of jackpot can be determined by the lighting pattern of the LEDs of the first special pattern first display 19a and the second special pattern first display 19b.

If the special symbol lottery determines a "jackpot (Type 1 jackpot)," a jackpot game (special game) will be played in which the first large prize opening 13a is opened in a predetermined manner and a round game is played a predetermined number of times (e.g., 2, 6, or 9 times).

The maximum number of times and maximum opening time of the first large prize opening 13a in each round of play is predetermined, but even if the maximum number of openings or maximum opening time is not reached, one round of play ends when a predetermined number of game balls (for example, 10 balls) enter the first large prize opening 13a. In other words, a "jackpot game (special game)" is an advantageous game state for players who are more likely to win prize balls.

If the special symbol lottery determines that a "small win" has occurred, a small win game is played in which the second large winning opening 14a is opened in a predetermined manner.
When the game ball that enters the second large prize opening 14a passes through the specific area 14e, a jackpot is awarded (type 2 jackpot), and a jackpot game (special game) is played in which a round game in which the first large prize opening 13a is opened in a predetermined manner is played a predetermined number of times (for example, 9 times, 6 times, or 3 times).

The normal symbol lottery involves acquiring normal symbol determination information when a gaming ball passes through gate 12, making a hit determination based on the acquired normal symbol determination information to determine whether or not it is a "win," and then making a normal symbol determination based on the result of that determination to determine the normal symbol to be displayed in a stopped state on first normal symbol display 19c.

When a normal symbol lottery is held, the normal symbol first display 19c displays a fluctuating normal symbol, and after a predetermined time has passed, a static display of the normal symbol indicating the result of the lottery is displayed. In other words, the static display of the normal symbol serves as notification of the result of the lottery.

The first normal symbol display 19c is composed of one or more LEDs, which flash at predetermined intervals or in a predetermined sequence when displaying a changing normal symbol. When a normal symbol is displayed in a static state, one or more LEDs light up in a manner that indicates the result of the normal symbol lottery (a manner that indicates the type of normal symbol). In other words, the type of win, described below, can also be determined by the lighting pattern of the LEDs on the first normal symbol display 19c.

If the normal symbol lottery results in a "win," a winning game (auxiliary game) is played in which the second starting port 14a goes to the second state (open state) and then goes to the first state (closed state).
The maximum number of times and maximum opening time of the second start port 14a in a winning game (auxiliary game) are predetermined, but even before the maximum number of times and maximum opening time are reached, if a predetermined number of game balls (for example, 10 balls) enter the second start port 14a, the winning game (auxiliary game) ends. In other words, the "winning game (auxiliary game)" is a game state in which the variable display of the second special symbol is likely to be executed (the start condition is likely to be met).

The first special symbol reserve first display 19d is composed of multiple LEDs and displays the number of rights to hold a first special symbol lottery (hereinafter referred to as "first reserves") that are stored when a gaming ball enters the first starting hole 10, and lights up or flashes in a manner that indicates the number of first reserves. In this embodiment, a maximum of four first reserves can be stored.

The second special symbol reserve first display 19e is composed of multiple LEDs and is used to display the number of rights to hold a second special symbol lottery (hereinafter referred to as "second reserves") that are stored when a gaming ball enters the second starting hole 11a, and lights up or flashes in a manner that indicates the number of second reserves. In this embodiment, a maximum of four second reserves can be stored. In the following explanation, the term "number of first reserves" may be expressed as "first reserve number," and the term "number of second reserves" may be expressed as "second reserve number."

The first normal symbol reserve display 19f is composed of multiple LEDs and displays the number of rights (hereinafter referred to as "normal symbol reserves") that are stored when a gaming ball passes through the gate 12 to make a winning judgment for a normal symbol (displaying the fluctuations of the normal symbol), and lights up or flashes in a manner that indicates the number of normal symbol reserves. In this embodiment, a maximum of four normal symbol reserves can be stored. In the following explanation, the term "number of normal symbol reserves" may be expressed as "number of normal symbol reserves."

The first right-hand hit indicator 19j is composed of a single LED (light-emitting element) and is used to indicate whether or not a so-called "right-hand hit", which fires a game ball into the right-hand game area 4a2, is recommended. When the game state is a "time-limited game state", when a small win game is being played, or when a jackpot game is being played, in other words, when a "right-hand hit" is recommended, the LED lights up, and when a right-hand hit is not recommended (in other words, when a so-called "left-hand hit" is recommended), the LED is turned off.

The first special symbol first display 19a and/or the second special symbol first display 19b can also be configured with a 7-segment LED. For example, if the special symbol lottery is won, a static "7" is displayed, and if the winner is lost, a static "-" is displayed, with the display repeatedly extinguishing and then changing to "-" during the changing display. Furthermore, since the changing display of the special symbol starts from the state where the previous static display was displayed, starting with the LED being extinguished makes it easier to understand that the changing display has begun.

A center device 15 is attached approximately in the center of the game board 4. The center device 15 is provided with a frame (decorative frame) 15a that restricts the entry of game balls into the interior. This frame 15a is fitted into an opening (not shown) formed in the game board 4, and a warp device 15b is provided on the left side of the frame 15a, which can introduce game balls flowing down the game area 4a into the interior of the frame 15a. A center stage 15c on which game balls can roll is provided below the frame 15a. Game balls introduced into the interior of the frame 15a by the warp device 15b travel through the warp passage of the warp device 15b, roll on the center stage 15c, and flow downward below the frame 15a.

An image display device 16 (main LCD) consisting of a liquid crystal display is provided at the back center of the performance space 15A defined inside the frame body 15a of the center role device 15. Furthermore, image display devices (sub-LCDs) consisting of liquid crystal displays may also be provided on the left and right sides of the opening/closing frame 2B (inner frame).

A first movable effect member 17A (effect device) modeled after a sword and a second movable effect member 17B (effect device) modeled after a signboard with the title of the gaming machine 1 are provided at the upper side of the effect space 15A, with the second movable effect member 17B being positioned further forward than the first movable effect member 17A.

On the right side of the performance space 15A, a third movable performance element 17C (performance element) resembling a "sword" larger than the "sword" of the first movable performance element 17A is provided.

The first movable performance element 17A consists of a sheath simulating a sheath and a blade portion housed in the sheath. The blade portion is driven by a board drive device 17 equipped with a stepping motor, allowing it to move left and right. When the blade portion is housed in the sheath, it can move to the left, creating the effect of the blade portion being pulled out of the sheath.

The second movable performance member 17B is driven by the board drive device 17 to move up and down, and can perform a performance in which it moves down from the upper side of the performance space 15A and appears in front of the display unit (display screen) of the image display device 16. An image display unit 18 is provided on the front of the second movable performance member 17B.

The third movable performance member 17C is composed of a sheath that resembles a sheath and a blade that is housed in the sheath. The blade can be moved up and down by being driven by the board drive device 17, and can perform the performance of the blade moving upward from a state in which it is housed in the sheath, and then being pulled out of the sheath.

Furthermore, the third movable performance member 17C can be tilted around its lower end as a fulcrum when driven by the board drive device 17, allowing the blade to be tilted from its unsheathed position toward the front of the central area of the display unit of the image display device 16, creating the effect of slashing an opponent with the sword.

The first, second, and third movable performance members 17A, 17B, and 17C are equipped with a board lighting device 23 equipped with multiple LEDs, which allows for lighting effects in which the blade, logo, etc., are illuminated in a predetermined manner during standby or performance operations.

The display unit (display screen) of the image display device 16 displays various effect images (including videos) according to the progress (development) of the game. Display effects include customer waiting effects that are displayed when the special pattern first display 19a, 19b is not displaying a changing special pattern, variable effects that include a changing display of the effect pattern 16a that corresponds to the changing special pattern display on the special pattern first display 19a, 19b, a big win effect that is displayed during a big win game, and a small win effect that is displayed during a small win game.

The variable effect displayed on the display unit (display screen) of the image display device 16 involves a variable display in which three effect patterns 16a (left pattern, middle pattern, right pattern) scroll vertically. Note that the manner in which the variable display of the effect patterns 16a is displayed is not limited to this; they may rotate (spin) on the spot, or scroll horizontally.

The performance pattern 16a is composed of, for example, an identification part consisting of code information of numbers or letters indicating "1" to "9", or "one" to "nine", or is composed of an identification part and a decorative part consisting of predetermined decorative information (accompanying information) such as a character image (for example, an animal character such as a cat or dog) or a decorative frame image that is attached to the periphery (nearby) of the identification part.
The display of the effect pattern 16a changes in response to the display of the special patterns executed by the first special pattern first display 19a and the second special pattern first display 19b. That is, the display of the effect pattern 16a changes in response to the start of the display of the special patterns, and the display of the effect pattern 16a changes in response to the stop of the display of the special patterns.

When the display of the effect symbols 16a stops, the effect symbols 16a stop for a predetermined period of time in a predetermined pattern (miss pattern, small win pattern, big win pattern, etc.) that indicates the result of the big win determination. For example, a big win pattern is a combination of the same effect symbols 16a such as "777," a small win pattern is a combination of effect symbols 16a with a pattern such as "357," and a miss pattern is a combination of effect symbols 16a other than the big win pattern or small win pattern.

During the variable display, while the display pattern 16a is being displayed, various display images (including videos) such as reach effects, background images, and character images are displayed on the display unit (display screen) of the image display device 16 according to the results of the jackpot determination, thereby increasing the player's anticipation of a jackpot occurring.

The display unit (display screen) of the image display device 16 is formed with a first hold icon display area 16b for displaying the number of first hold icons (e.g., "◎") corresponding to the first hold number (U1), a second hold icon display area 16c for displaying the number of second hold icons (e.g., "◎") corresponding to the second hold number (U2), and a variable icon display area 16d for displaying the variable icon (e.g., "◎" with a larger display size than the hold icon) corresponding to the variable display of the special pattern (performance pattern 16a) currently being executed.

The display unit (display screen) of the image display device 16 is formed with a first reserved number display area 16e for displaying the first reserved number indicating the current first reserved number (U1), a second reserved number display area 16f for displaying the second reserved number indicating the current second reserved number (U2), and a special pattern display area TZ for displaying the special pattern change display and the special pattern that changes in response to the change display of the performance pattern 16a.

The special symbols are composed only of the numbers "1" through "9," and are displayed, for example, as reduced symbols smaller than the normal display size of the effect symbols 16a. The changing special symbols in the special symbol display area TZ are continuously displayed in a fixed display mode (a display mode in which the numbers change in sequence) from the time the changing special symbol and effect symbol display starts until they stop displaying, and are always displayed in a visible state without disappearing from the display screen or being blocked by the effect movement of the movable effect members 17A through 17C.

On the other hand, the changing display of the performance pattern 16a may become invisible on the screen as the performance progresses. Therefore, the changing display of the special pattern corresponds to the changing display of the performance pattern 16a, and as it continues to be displayed in a visible state regardless of the progress of the performance, it also functions as a changing display of the performance pattern.

The first hold icon display area 16b is divided into a first display section, a second display section, a third display section, and a fourth display section from the side closest to the variable icon display area 16d, and the first to fourth display sections display a number of first hold icons corresponding to the first hold number (U1).

The second hold icon display area 16c is divided into a first display section, a second display section, a third display section, and a fourth display section from the side closest to the variable icon display area 16d, and the first to fourth display sections display a number of second hold icons corresponding to the second hold number (U2).

Like the special symbols, the display of the reserved numbers in the first and second reserved number display areas 16e and 16f will never disappear from the screen of the display unit of the image display device 16 or be obscured by the performance movement of the movable performance member 17; in other words, they will always be visible regardless of the progress of the performance.

As shown in Figure 2, on the back side of the opening/closing frame 2B and the game board 4, there are a payout device 100 for paying out game balls based on the fulfillment of predetermined payout conditions (prize balls, ball loans), a game ball storage section 101 for storing game balls supplied from island equipment etc. and supplying them to the payout device 100, a main control device 110A incorporating a main control board 110 that comprehensively controls the progress of the game, and a payout control board 120 that controls the payout device 100 in response to payout control commands from the main control board 110. The gaming machine 1 is equipped with a control device 120A, a performance control unit 130 that controls performance in response to performance control commands from the main control board 110, a performance control device 130A that incorporates an image control unit 140 and a lamp control unit 150, a power supply device 160A that incorporates a power supply board 160 that supplies power voltage to the various control devices 110A-130A, and a game information output terminal board 90 for outputting game information (game signals) to an external device (such as a hall computer) outside the gaming machine 1. The power supply board 160 is also equipped with a power plug 161 for supplying power to the gaming machine 1 and a power switch (not shown).

In addition, a door-type cover member 90 is provided that opens and closes on either side of a rotation axis on one side to cover the upper part of the main control device 110A and the entire performance control device 130A from the rear, and the other side opens and closes in the left-right direction. The performance control device 130A is provided with a selector switch covered by the cover member 90 to switch adjustment modes related to adjusting the volume of the performance sound output from the audio output device 9 and the light intensity (light emission intensity) of the image display devices 16, 18 and various lighting devices (board lighting device 23, frame lighting device 27).

(Control configuration of gaming machine 1)
Next, a specific description will be given of the control configuration of the gaming machine 1. Fig. 4 is an overall block diagram of the gaming machine 1 in this embodiment.
The control configuration of this embodiment includes a main control board 110 that comprehensively controls the progress of the game (basic operations), a payout control board 120 that controls the payout of game balls based on receiving payout control commands from the main control board 110, a presentation control board 130 that controls presentation related to the game based on receiving presentation control commands from the main control board 110, and a power supply board 160 that supplies power to the main control board 110, the payout control board 120, and the presentation control board 130.

Furthermore, communication between the main control board 110 and the payout control board 120 is configured to allow commands to be sent and received in both directions, while communication between the main control board 110 and the performance control board 130 is configured to allow commands to be sent in only one direction, from the main control board 110 to the performance control board 130.

The front side of the main control board 110 is equipped with a main control unit 110m, which consists of a one-chip microcomputer for controlling gameplay; an RWM clear switch 58c, which inputs a signal to clear the contents of the main RAM 110c of the main control unit 110m or to update the setting value, which indicates the level of game advantage (which changes the game advantage); a setting key switch 58d, which inputs a signal to transition to a state where the setting value can be changed or confirmed by operating the setting key; and a performance indicator 111, which displays performance information and setting values that allow the actual performance of the gaming machine to be understood.

The performance indicator 111 is used to display the setting values and performance information (usually base values) described below, and consists of four 7-segment indicators with decimal points arranged horizontally. The two 7-segment indicators corresponding to the top two digits form identification segments to indicate the type of performance information (data type), and the two 7-segment indicators corresponding to the bottom two digits form numeric segments to display numerical information indicating the setting values and performance information values.

The main control unit 110m includes a main CPU 110a that performs calculations, a main ROM 110b that stores game control programs, a main RAM 110c that serves as a work area during calculations, and input/output ports.

The input port of the main control unit 110m is connected to a general prize opening detection switch 14a, a gate detection switch 12a, a first start opening detection switch 10a, a second start opening detection switch 11c, a second start opening opening/closing solenoid 11d, a first large prize opening detection switch 13c, a first large prize opening opening/closing solenoid 13d, a second large prize opening detection switch 14c, a second large prize opening opening/closing solenoid 14d, a specific area detection switch 14f, a distribution solenoid 22b, a magnetic detection sensor 58a, a radio wave detection sensor 58b, a prize confirmation detection Switch 58e, vibration detection switch 58f, first special symbol first display 19a, second special symbol first display 19b, normal symbol first display 19c, first special symbol reserved first display 19d, second special symbol reserved first display 19e, normal symbol reserved first display 19f, right-hit first display 19j, setting display (not shown), game information output terminal board 112, RWM clear switch 58c, setting key switch 58d, performance display 111, payout control board 120, and performance control board 130 are connected.

The main CPU 110a receives an operating clock from a crystal oscillator, reads the game control program stored in the main RAM 110b, and performs calculations related to the game while using the main RAM 110c as a work area. This allows it to perform control processes in response to detection signals from various input devices (detection switches, detection sensors, etc.), control processes for controlling various output devices (solenoids, various displays 19a-19f, etc.), control processes for sending and receiving various control commands, and control processes for transmitting game information to an external device (such as a hall computer) outside the gaming machine 1 via the game information output terminal board.

The memory area of the main control unit 110m includes a memory area allocated to the main ROM 110b and a memory area allocated to the main RAM 110c.

The memory areas of the main ROM 110b are arranged in the following order: a game ROM area where programs and data related to the progress of the game are stored; an information ROM area where programs and data related to the performance display of the gaming machine are stored; an unused area of 16 bytes or more where access is prohibited and where "0" is stored; a ROM comment area where data such as the program title and version is stored; a vector table area where the start address of the timer interrupt processing is set; and a HW parameter area where parameters such as the start address and end address of the access prohibited area are set.

The memory area of main RAM 110c is arranged in order as follows: a game RWM area used as a work area when executing game programs, and an information RWM area used as a work area when executing information programs.

The payout control board 120 includes a payout control unit 121 that drives the payout device 100 to control the payout of game balls, and a launch control unit 122 that drives the launch device 26 to control the launch of game balls.
The payout control unit 121 includes a payout CPU 121a that performs calculation processing, a payout ROM 121b that stores a payout program and the like, a payout RAM 121c that serves as a work area during calculation processing, and input/output ports.

The input/output port of the payout control unit 121 is connected to the open detection switch 31a for the opening/closing door 3, the tray full detection switch 32a, the payout ball detection switch 100a for detecting game balls being paid out from the payout device 100, the payout motor 100b for paying out game balls from the payout device 100, and the ball presence detection switch 101a for detecting that game balls are stored in the game ball storage unit 101.

The payout CPU 121a receives an operating clock from the crystal oscillator, reads the payout control program stored in the payout ROM 121b, and performs calculations related to the payout of game balls while using the payout RAM 121c as a work area. This allows it to perform control processes such as the control of paying out game balls from the payout device 100 in response to payout control commands from the main control board 110, and the control of sending commands based on the results of the calculations to the main control board 110.

The firing control unit 122 is equipped with a control circuit, input/output ports, etc. The input/output ports of the firing control unit 122 are connected to the ball feed solenoid 43, touch sensor 7a, firing volume 7b, firing solenoid 26a, etc.

When the launch control unit 122 detects that the player's hand is touching the launch handle 7 through a touch signal input from the touch sensor 7a, it allows current to flow to the ball feed solenoid 43 and the launch solenoid 26a. When it detects a change in the rotation angle of the launch handle 7 through a detection signal from the launch volume 7b, it activates the ball feed solenoid 43 and also activates the launch solenoid 26a to launch game balls (99.9 balls/minute) with a launch intensity that corresponds to the rotation angle of the launch handle 7.

The performance control board 130 is equipped with a performance control unit 130m that comprehensively controls the progress of the performance based on performance control commands received from the main control board 110, an image control unit 140 that controls image display and audio output based on performance control commands received from the performance control unit 130m, and a lamp control unit 150 that controls various light-emitting elements (LEDs, etc.) and various drive sources (solenoids, motors, etc.) based on performance control commands received from the performance control unit 130m.

The performance control unit 130m includes a sub-CPU 130a that performs arithmetic processing, a sub-ROM 130b that stores a performance control program, a sub-RAM 130c that serves as a work area during arithmetic processing, and an input port.
The input/output ports of the performance control unit 130m are connected to the performance button detection switch 6b, the cross key detection switch 6g, the first special pattern second display 20a, the second special pattern second display 20b, the normal pattern second display 20c, the first special pattern reserved second display 20d, the second special pattern second display 20e, the normal pattern reserved second display 20f, and the right-hit second display 20g.

The sub-CPU 130a of the performance control unit 130m receives an operating clock from a crystal oscillator, reads the performance control program stored in the sub-ROM 130b, and performs calculations related to the performance while using the sub-RAM 130c as a work area. This allows for control processing to determine the performance mode of the variable performance, control processing to send performance control commands based on the determination results to the image control unit 140 and lamp control unit 150, control processing in response to detection signals from various input devices (detection switches, etc.), and control processing to control various output devices (lighting devices, drive motors, and various displays 20a-20g).

(performance indicator)
5(a) to 5(c) are diagrams for explaining the control of the performance indicator 111. FIG.
The performance indicator 111 displays the base value B in the low-probability non-time-saving game state (normal game state). The base value B for a specific section is calculated by dividing the total number of prize balls paid out in that section by the number of outs (the total number of game balls fired).

Figure 5(a) is a diagram explaining the various counters (base calculation prize ball counter, base calculation out counter, total out counter) used to control the display of the performance indicator 111. Each of the above counters is provided, for example, in the gaming RWM area of the main RAM 110c.

The base calculation prize ball counter counts the number of prize balls in a specific section. Specifically, when a game ball enters the general prize slot 21, the base calculation prize ball counter is incremented by a value of "5."
When a game ball enters the first major winning slot 13a or the second major winning slot 14a, the value "15" is added to the prize ball counter for base calculation. Similarly, when a game ball enters the first starting slot 10 or the second starting slot 11a, the value "3" is added to the prize ball counter for base calculation.
The out counter for base calculation counts the number of outs in a specific section. Specifically, each time a game ball is detected by an out ball detection switch (not shown), the value "1" is added to the out counter for base calculation.

The main CPU 110a calculates the base value B for a specific section by multiplying the result of dividing the value of the base calculation prize ball counter by the value of the base calculation out counter by the value "100." However, the base calculation out counter and the base calculation prize ball counter are not incremented except in the low-probability non-time-shortened game state. With the above configuration, the base value B for the low-probability non-time-shortened game state within the specific section is calculated.
In this embodiment, the period during which the base calculation out counter and the base calculation prize ball counter are counted may be referred to as the "counting period," and the period other than the counting period may be referred to as the "non-counting period."

The main CPU 110a stores (saves) the base value B for each predetermined interval that ends. In this embodiment, the base value B is saved each time 60,000 outs are counted. Specifically, the total out counter counts the number of outs (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "total number of outs") from when the power was first turned on until the present.

Each time the value "60000" is added to the total out counter, the main CPU 110a calculates and saves a base value B from the current values of the base calculation prize ball counter and the base calculation out counter.
In addition, each time the value "60000" is added to the total out counter, the base calculation prize ball counter and the base calculation out counter are initialized.

FIG. 5B is a diagram for explaining the base value B displayed on the performance indicator 111.
In the specific example of Figure 5(b), it is assumed that 60,000 outs are counted in section 3, then 60,000 outs are counted in section 2, and 60,000 outs are counted in section 1, and section L begins. The number of outs in section L is less than 60,000 (0 to 59,999). It is also assumed that the base value B in section 3 is "B3", the base value B in section 2 is "B2", the base value B in section 1 is "B1", and the base value B in section L is "BL".

In the above specific example, in section L, the base display 111 displays the base value BL for section L (real time), the base value B1 for section 1 (the previous section), the base value B2 for section 2 (the section two times ago), and the base value B3 for section 3 (the section three times ago). Specifically, the base display 111 switches between displaying four base values B in the order of base value BL, base value B1, base value B2, and base value B3. The base value B for each section is switched and displayed, for example, approximately every five seconds. In this embodiment, the base value B is continuously displayed on the base display 114, including during periods when play is possible.

When one interval ends (when 60,000 outs have been counted), the base value B for that interval is saved as the base value B for the previous interval, and the base value B for the oldest interval is discarded. For example, in the specific example of Figure 5(b), when the number of outs in interval L reaches 60,000, the base value BL for interval L is stored as the base value B1 for interval 1, the base value B1 for interval 1 is stored as the base value B2 for interval 2, the base value B2 for interval 2 is stored as the base value B3 for interval 3, and the base value 3 for the oldest interval 3 is discarded.

FIG. 5C is a diagram for explaining a specific example of the performance indicator 111.
As shown in FIG. 5(c), the base display 111 includes a first display section 111x and a second display section 111y.
The first display unit 111x is composed of two 7-segment displays (including digital points) and displays identification information (bL, b1, b2, b3) that can identify which section's base value B is displayed on the second display unit 111y.

The second display unit 111y is composed of two 7-segment displays (including digital points) and displays the base value B. For example, if the base value is greater than "100,""99." is displayed on the second display unit 111y. The performance indicator 111 switches and displays the base value B for each section on the second display unit 111y in the order of section L, section 1, section 2, and section 3 approximately every 5 seconds.

As shown in FIG. 5(b), during the period when base value BL for section L is displayed, identification information "bL" is displayed on first display unit 111x. Furthermore, during the period when base value B1 for section 1 is displayed, identification information "b1" is displayed on first display unit 111x, during the period when base value B2 for section 2 is displayed, identification information "b2" is displayed on first display unit 111x, and during the period when base value B3 for section 3 is displayed, identification information "b3" is displayed on first display unit 111x.

However, if the total number of outs is less than 60,000, the base value to be displayed on the second display unit 111y cannot be calculated during the period when the identification information "b1" is displayed on the first display unit 111x. Similarly, if the total number of outs is less than 60,000, the base value to be displayed with the identification information "b2" and the base value to be displayed with the identification information "b3" cannot be calculated. Taking the above into consideration, if the total number of outs is less than 60,000, during the period when the identification information "b1" to "b3" is displayed on the first display unit 111x, each identification information will be displayed in a flashing manner, and the special symbol "- -" will be displayed in a lit state on the second display unit 111y.

When the total number of outs is greater than 60,000 but less than 120,000, the base value B1 for displaying the identification information "b1" is calculated, but the base value B2 for displaying the identification information "b2" and the base value B3 for displaying the identification information "b3" cannot be calculated. Taking the above into consideration, when the total number of outs is greater than 60,000 but less than 120,000, during the period when the identification information "b1" is displayed on the first display unit 111x, the identification information is displayed in a lit state and the base value B1 is displayed in a lit state; during the period when the identification information "b2" or the identification information "b3" is displayed, each identification information is displayed in a flashing state and the special symbol "- - " is displayed in a lit state on the second display unit 111y.

Similarly, if the total number of outs is greater than or equal to 120,000 but less than 180,000, the base value B1 for displaying the identification information "b1" and the base value B2 for displaying the identification information "b2" are calculated, but the base value B3 for displaying the identification information "b3" cannot be calculated. Taking the above into consideration, if the total number of outs is greater than or equal to 120,000 but less than 180,000, during the period when the identification information "b1" or the identification information "b2" is displayed on the first display unit 111x, the identification information is displayed in a lit state and the base values (B1, B2) are displayed in a lit state; and during the period when the identification information "b3" is displayed, the identification information is displayed in a flashing state and the special symbol "- - " is displayed in a lit state on the second display unit 111y.

(Configuration of image control unit)
The configuration of the image control unit 140 will be described.
FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the image control unit 140.
The image control unit 140 includes a general CPU 141, a general RAM 142, a general ROM 143, a CGROM 144, a crystal oscillator 145, a VRAM 146, and a VDP (Video Display Processor) 200 (drawing control unit) for controlling the image display of the image display device 16 and the sound of the sound output device 9. The VDP 200 includes a sound control circuit 300 for controlling the sound output of the gaming machine 1.

Based on a performance pattern specification command (described later) received from the performance control unit 130m, the overall CPU 141 instructs the VDP 200 to display image data stored in the CGROM 144 on the image display device 16. This instruction is carried out by setting data in the control register 201 of the VDP 200 and outputting a display list consisting of a group of drawing control commands.

When the overall CPU 141 receives a V-blank interrupt signal or a drawing end signal from the VDP 200, it performs appropriate interrupt processing. The overall CPU 141 also instructs the audio control circuit 300 included in the VDP 200 to output music and audio based on specified audio data to the audio output device 9, based on the performance pattern designation command received from the performance control unit 130m.

The general RAM 142 is built into the general CPU 141 and functions as a work area for data during arithmetic processing by the general CPU 141 , and temporarily stores data read from the general ROM 143 .
The general ROM 143 is composed of a mask ROM, and stores the control processing program of the general CPU 141, pattern arrangement information that corresponds the pattern number of the performance pattern 16a with the type of performance pattern 16a, a display list generation program for generating a display list, animation patterns for displaying animations of performance patterns, animation scene information, etc.

An animation pattern is referenced when displaying the animation of a performance pattern, and stores the combination of animation scene information included in that performance pattern, the display order of each animation scene information, etc. The animation scene information also stores information such as wait frames (display time), target data (sprite identification number, source address, etc.), parameters (sprite display position, destination address, etc.), drawing method, etc.

CGROM 144 is composed of flash memory, EEPROM, EPROM, mask ROM, etc., and stores compressed image data (sprites, movies) consisting of a collection of pixel information for a specified range of pixels (e.g., 32 x 32 pixels). The pixel information consists of color number information that specifies a color number for each pixel and an alpha value that indicates the transparency of the image.

CGROM 144 stores uncompressed palette data that associates color number information that specifies a color number with display color information for actually displaying the color. CGROM 144 may be configured to compress only a portion of the image data, rather than compressing all of it. Various well-known compression methods, such as MPEG4, can be used to compress movies. CGROM 144 also stores a large amount of audio data.

The crystal oscillator 145 outputs a pulse signal to the clock generation circuit 205 of the VDP 200, and by dividing the frequency of this pulse signal, the clock generation circuit 205 generates a system clock for control by the VDP 200, a synchronization signal for synchronization with the image display device 16, and the like.

VRAM 146 is composed of SRAM, which allows for high-speed writing and reading of image data. VRAM 146 has a display list storage area 146a that temporarily stores the display list output from the overall CPU 141, an expansion storage area 146b that stores image data expanded by the expansion circuit 206, and a first frame buffer 146c and a second frame buffer 146d for drawing or displaying images. Palette data is also stored in VRAM 146. The first and second frame buffers 146c and 146d alternate between being the "drawing frame buffer" and the "display frame buffer" each time drawing begins.

The VDP 200 is a so-called image processor that, based on instructions from the overall CPU 141, reads image data from either the first frame buffer 146c or the second frame buffer 146d, generates a video signal (such as an RGB signal) based on the read image data, and outputs it to the image display device 16. Furthermore, in the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment, the VDP 200 is not simply an image processor; it also has an audio output function.

The VDP 200 includes a control register 201 , a CG bus I/F 202 , a CPU I/F 203 , a clock generation circuit 205 , an expansion circuit 206 , a drawing circuit 207 , a display circuit 208 , a memory controller 209 and an audio control circuit 300 .
The control register 201 is a register used by the VDP 200 to control drawing and display, and drawing control and display control are performed by writing and reading data to and from the control register 201. The overall CPU 141 can write and read data to and from the control register 201 via the CPU I/F 203.

The control register 201 includes six types of registers: a system control register that performs basic settings required for the operation of the VDP 200; a data transfer register that performs settings required for data transfer; a drawing register that performs settings for controlling drawing; a bus interface register that performs settings required for bus access; a decompression register that performs settings required for decompressing compressed images; and a display register that performs settings for display control.

The CG bus I/F 202 is an interface circuit for communication with the CGROM 144 , and image data from the CGROM 144 is input to the VDP 200 via the CG bus I/F 202 .
The CPU I/F 203 is an interface circuit for communication with the overall CPU 141 , and via the CPU I/F 203 the overall CPU 141 outputs a display list to the VDP 200 , accesses a control register, or inputs various interrupt signals from the VDP 200 .

The data transfer circuit 204 transfers data between various devices. Specifically, it transfers data between the overall CPU 141 and the VRAM 146, between the CGROM 144 and the VRAM 146, and between various storage areas (including the frame buffer) of the VRAM 146.
The clock generation circuit 205 receives a pulse signal from the crystal oscillator 145 and generates a system clock that determines the processing speed of the VDP 200. It also generates a clock for generating a synchronization signal and outputs the synchronization signal to the image display device 16 via the display circuit 208.

The decompression circuit 206 is a circuit for decompressing image data compressed in the CGROM 144, and stores the decompressed image data in the decompression storage area 146b.
The drawing circuit 207 is a circuit that performs sequence control using a display list that is made up of a group of drawing control commands.

The display circuit 208 is a circuit that generates RGB signals (analog signals) representing the color data of an image as video signals from image data (digital signals) stored in the "display frame buffer" in the VRAM 146, and outputs the generated video signals (RGB signals) to the image display device 16. Furthermore, the display circuit 208 also outputs synchronization signals (vertical synchronization signals, horizontal synchronization signals, etc.) to synchronize the first image display device 16 to the image display device 16. Note that in this embodiment, the circuit is configured to output RGB signals, which are digital signals converted into analog signals, as video signals to the image display device 16, but the video signals may also be output as digital signals.

When the memory controller 209 receives an instruction to switch the frame buffer from the overall CPU 141, it controls switching between the "drawing frame buffer" and the "display frame buffer."
The audio control circuit 300 reads out a predetermined program based on a command sent from the performance control board 130 and controls the audio output in the audio output device 9.
The audio control circuit 300 outputs music and sound using audio data stored in the CGROM 144. In this case, the CGROM 144 includes a sound source ROM for storing audio data. The audio control circuit 300 may not be included in the VDP 200, but may be provided independently within the image control unit 140.

As shown in Figure 4, the lamp control unit 150 includes a lamp CPU 150a that performs calculation processing, a lamp ROM 150b that stores the lamp control program, a lamp RAM 150c that serves as a work area during calculation processing, and input/output ports.

The input/output ports of the lamp control unit 150 are connected to the board drive device 17, the board lighting device 23, the frame lighting device 27, the button drive motor 6c, the button vibration motor 6d, and the button light emitting LED 6e.
The lamp CPU 150a receives an operating clock from a crystal oscillator, reads out the lamp control program stored in the lamp ROM 150b, and performs calculations related to the effects while using the lamp RAM 150c as a work area, thereby controlling the board drive device 17, the board illumination device 23, the frame illumination device 27, the button drive motor 6c, the button vibration motor 6d, and the button light-emitting LED 6e.

The power supply board 160 generates the main power supply (operating power) required to operate the gaming machine 1 from the power supply voltage supplied from the power plug 161, and supplies this main power supply to the gaming machine 1 (main control board 110, payout control board 120, presentation control board 130, and various electronic components). The power supply board 160 is equipped with a power interruption detection circuit 162 that detects whether a power interruption (power outage) has occurred and outputs a power interruption detection signal to the main control board 110 based on the occurrence of a power interruption (power outage), and a backup power supply circuit 163 that supplies backup power to the main control board 110 in the event of a power interruption (power outage).

The power interruption detection circuit 162 monitors the power supply voltage supplied to the gaming machine 1, and when the power supply voltage falls below a predetermined value, it outputs a power interruption detection signal to the main control board 110. More specifically, when the power interruption detection signal goes high, the main CPU 110a enters an operable state, and when the power interruption detection signal goes low, the main CPU 110a enters a stopped state.

The backup power circuit 163 is equipped with a capacitor that stores electricity when the gaming machine 1 is powered on, and in the event of a power outage (blackout), the backup power supply voltage stored in the capacitor is supplied to the main RAM 110c of the main control board 110. This allows the stored contents of the main RAM 110c and payout RAM 121c to be retained even in the event of a power outage (blackout), and after recovery from the power outage (blackout), the game control state can be restored to the state it was in before the power outage (blackout). It is also possible to supply backup power to the payout control board 120 and the presentation control board 130.

Next, various tables stored in the main ROM 110b will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.
(Jackpot determination table)
Figure 7(a) is a jackpot determination table for the first special pattern triggered by the entry of a game ball into the first starting hole 10, and Figure 7(b) is a jackpot determination table for the second special pattern triggered by the entry of a game ball into the second starting hole 11a.

As shown in Figures 7(a) and 7(b), the jackpot determination value used to determine the random number value for jackpot determination obtained when a gaming ball enters the first starting hole 10 or the second starting hole 11a is associated with the win/loss result, and the jackpot determination value is assigned so that the win/loss ratio is as shown in Figure 7.

The main CPU 110a references the jackpot determination table for the first special symbol shown in Figure 7(a) or the jackpot determination table for the second special symbol shown in Figure 7(b), and determines whether the result is a "jackpot," "small jackpot," or "miss" based on the obtained jackpot determination random number value. Note that the jackpot determination table for the first special symbol shown in Figure 7(a) and the jackpot determination table for the second special symbol shown in Figure 7(b) have the same jackpot probability, but the small jackpot probability and miss probability differ.

(Special symbol determination table)
Figure 8(a) is a big win special pattern determination table that is referenced to determine the stopping pattern of the special pattern when a big win is won, Figure 8(b) is a small win special pattern determination table that is referenced to determine the stopping pattern of the special pattern when a small win is won, and Figure 8(c) is a losing special pattern determination table that is referenced to determine the stopping pattern of the special pattern when a loss occurs.

As shown in Figure 8(a), the jackpot special symbol determination table is divided into tables according to the type of starting gate into which the gaming ball enters. Each table is associated with a special symbol determination value for determining the special symbol determination random number value obtained when the gaming ball enters the first starting gate 10 or the second starting gate 11a, a special symbol (special symbol stop data), and a performance symbol designation command sent to the performance control board 130 as information indicating the type of special symbol, and the special symbol determination value is set to achieve the special symbol selection rate (%) shown in Figure 8(a).

As shown in Figure 8(b), the small win special symbol determination table is divided into tables according to the type of starting port into which the gaming ball enters. Each table corresponds to a special symbol determination value for determining the random number value for special symbol determination obtained when the gaming ball enters the first starting port 10 or the second starting port 11a, a special symbol (special symbol stop data), and a performance symbol designation command sent to the performance control board 130 as information indicating the type of special symbol, and the special symbol determination value is set to achieve the special symbol selection rate (%) shown in Figure 8(b). Note that multiple special symbols may be configured to correspond to special symbol determination values so that multiple small win special symbols can be determined even in a small win.

As shown in Figure 8(c), the losing special symbol determination table is divided into tables according to the type of starting port into which the gaming ball enters. Each table corresponds to a special symbol determination value for determining the special symbol determination value obtained when the gaming ball enters the first starting port 10 or the second starting port 11a, a special symbol (special symbol stop data), and a performance symbol designation command sent to the performance control board 130 as information indicating the type of special symbol, and the special symbol determination value is set to achieve the special symbol selection rate (%) shown in Figure 8(c). Note that multiple special symbols may be configured to correspond to special symbol determination values so that multiple losing special symbols can be determined even in the case of a loss.

The main CPU 110a refers to the special pattern determination table shown in Figures 8(a) to (c) and determines the type of special pattern (special pattern stop data) based on the type of starting hole into which the game ball entered and the random number value for determining the special pattern.
When the special symbol starts to change, the main CPU 110a determines a special symbol designation command as information indicating the type of special symbol based on the determined type of special symbol (special symbol stop data). Here, each special symbol designation command is composed of two bytes of data, and is composed of one byte of MODE data to identify the classification of the control command and one byte of DATA data indicating the content of the control command to be executed. This also applies to the change pattern designation command, etc., which will be described later.

As will be described later, the type of special symbol (special symbol stop data) determines the type of jackpot game, the type of small jackpot game, and the game state after the jackpot game ends. In other words, the type of special symbol determines the type of jackpot game or small jackpot game, and the game state after the jackpot game ends.

(Type 1 jackpot game control table)
FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a first-class jackpot game control table for determining the progress of the jackpot state (special game state) when a jackpot is won.
The first type jackpot game control table corresponds to the type of special pattern (special pattern stop data), opening time, opening designation command to be sent to the performance control board 130 when the opening starts, a large prize opening opening/closing control table for determining the opening/closing mode of the first large prize opening 13a, ending time, and ending designation command to be sent to the performance control board 130 when the ending starts.

The main CPU 110a references the Type 1 jackpot game control table shown in Figure 9 and determines the opening time, special prize opening/closing control table, and ending time based on the special game stop data. Note that the number of rounds in the jackpot state (special game state) is determined by determining the type of special prize opening/closing table, so Figure 9 also provides additional information such as the number of rounds in the Type 1 jackpot state (special game state).

(First-class jackpot game opening/closing control table)
FIG. 10 shows a big prize opening opening control table for a first type big prize game that is referred to when a big prize is won.
The first-class jackpot game large prize opening opening/closing control table is divided into tables for each table number (TBL. No.). Each table is associated with a round number (R) indicating the number of rounds of the jackpot game (special game state), the type of large prize opening to be opened/closed, a special electric activation number (K) indicating the number of times the first large prize opening 13a is opened during one round, the opening time (s) of the first large prize opening 13a, and the closing time (s) for closing the first large prize opening 13a between rounds or during a round.

The main CPU 110a refers to the large prize opening opening/closing control table for Type 1 jackpot games shown in FIG. 10 to determine the opening/closing mode (opening/closing pattern) of the first large prize opening 13a, executes a Type 1 jackpot game based on Large Prize Opening/Closing Control Table 1 for Type 1 jackpot games (TBL. No. 01), executes a Type 1 jackpot game based on Large Prize Opening/Closing Control Table 2 for Type 1 jackpot games (TBL. No. 02), and executes a Type 1 jackpot game based on Large Prize Opening/Closing Control Table 3 for Type 1 jackpot games (TBL. No. 03).

According to the large prize opening/closing control table 1 for type 1 jackpot games (TBL.No = 01), the opening/closing member 13b is operated to open the first large prize opening 13a for up to 29.0 seconds per round from round 1 to round 9, executing a type 1 jackpot game. However, if the specified number (10) of game balls enter the first large prize opening 13a before the opening time has elapsed, one round of play will end. Then, when round 9 of play is completed, the type 1 jackpot game will end.

According to the large prize opening/closing control table 2 (TBL.No = 02) for Type 1 jackpot games, the opening/closing member 13b is operated to open the first large prize opening 13a for up to 29.0 seconds per round from round 1 to round 6, executing a Type 1 jackpot game. However, if the specified number (10) of game balls enter the first large prize opening 13a before the opening time has elapsed, one round of play will end. Then, when round 6 of play has ended, the Type 1 jackpot game will end.

According to the large prize opening/closing control table 3 (TBL. No. = 03) for Type 1 jackpot games, the opening/closing member 13b is operated to open the first large prize opening 13a for up to 29.0 seconds per round from round 1 to round 3, executing a Type 1 jackpot game. However, if the specified number (10) of game balls enter the first large prize opening 13a before the opening time has elapsed, one round of play will end. Then, when round 3 of play is completed, the Type 1 jackpot game will end.

(Small Win Game Control Table)
FIG. 11(a) is a diagram showing a small win game control table for determining the progress of the small win state (special game state) when a small win is won.
The small win game control table corresponds to the type of special pattern (special pattern stop data), opening time, opening designation command to be sent to the performance control board 130 when the opening starts, a large prize opening opening/closing control table for determining the opening/closing mode of the second large prize opening 14a, ending time, and ending designation command to be sent to the performance control board 130 when the ending starts.

The main CPU 110a refers to the small win game control table shown in Figure 11(a) and determines the opening time, the large prize opening/closing control table, and the ending time based on the special symbol stop data.

(Large prize opening/closing control table for small prize games)
11(b) shows a small prize game large prize opening/closing control table that is referenced when a small prize is won. This small prize game large prize opening/closing control table is divided into tables for each table number (TBL.No.). Each table corresponds to the type of large prize opening to be opened/closed during a small prize game, the special electric activation number (K) indicating the number of times the second large prize opening 14a is opened during a small prize game, the opening time (s) of the second large prize opening 14a, and the closing time (s) of the second large prize opening 14a during a small prize game.

The main CPU 110a refers to the small win game large prize opening opening/closing control table shown in Figure 11 (b) to identify the opening/closing mode (opening/closing pattern) of the second large prize opening 14a, and executes the small win game based on the small win game large prize opening opening/closing control table 4 (TBL. No. 04).

According to the small prize game large prize opening/closing control table 4 (TBL. No. = 04), the opening/closing member 14b is operated to execute a small prize game in which the second large prize opening 14a is opened for 1.8 seconds. However, if the specified number of game balls (10) enter the second large prize opening 14a before the opening time has elapsed, the small prize game ends.

(Specific area opening/closing control table for small win games)
11(c) shows a specific area opening/closing control table for small win games, which is referenced when a small win is won. This specific area opening/closing control table for small win games associates the elapsed time (s) from the opening of the second large prize opening 14a, the opening time (s) of the specific area 14e, and the closing time (s) of the specific area 14e.

When a small win game is executed and the elapsed time (s) from the opening of the second large prize opening 14a shown in the small win game specific area opening/closing control table in Figure 11 (c) has elapsed, the main CPU 110a activates the distribution member 22a to open the specific area 14e for 0.8 seconds.

(Type 2 jackpot game control table)
FIG. 12 shows a second type jackpot game control table for determining the progress of the jackpot game state (special game state) after the end of a small jackpot game when the game ball passes through a specific area 14e during the small jackpot game.
The second type jackpot game control table corresponds to the type of special pattern (special pattern stop data), a large prize opening/closing control table for determining the opening/closing mode of the first large prize opening 13a, the ending time (s), and the ending designation command to be sent to the performance control board 130 when the ending starts.

The main CPU 110a references the second-type jackpot game control table shown in Figure 12 and determines the large prize opening/closing control table and ending time (s) based on the special symbol stop data. Note that the number of rounds in the large prize opening/closing control table (special game state) is determined by determining the type of large prize opening/closing control table, so Figure 11 also provides additional information such as the number of rounds in the second-type jackpot state (special game state).

(Big prize opening/closing control table for second-class jackpot games)
FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a big prize opening opening control table for a second type big prize game that is referred to when the gaming ball passes through the specific area 14e in a small prize game.
The large prize opening opening/closing control table for type 2 jackpot games corresponds to a round number (R) indicating the number of rounds of the jackpot game (special game state), the type of large prize opening to be opened/closed, a special electric activation number (K) indicating the number of times the first large prize opening 13a is opened during one round, the opening time (s) of the first large prize opening 13a, and the closing time (s) for closing the first large prize opening 13a between rounds or during a round.

The main CPU 110a identifies the opening/closing mode (opening/closing pattern) of the first large prize opening 13a by referring to the large prize opening opening/closing control table for the second type of jackpot game shown in FIG. 13, and executes the second type of jackpot game based on the large prize opening opening/closing control table 4 for the second type of jackpot game (TBL. No. 04).

According to the large prize opening/closing control table 4 (TBL. No. = 04) for type 2 jackpot games, the opening/closing member 13b is operated to open the first large prize opening 13a for up to 29.0 seconds per round from round 2 to round 6, executing a type 2 jackpot game. However, if the specified number (10) of game balls enter the first large prize opening 13a before the opening time has elapsed, one round of play ends. Then, when round 6 is completed, the type 2 jackpot game ends. Note that the small prize game is the first round of play in a jackpot game.

(Game Status Setting Table)
14 is a game state setting table for determining the game state after the end of a jackpot game (special game state). This game state setting table associates the special symbol stop data, the winning state indicating the game state at the time of winning a jackpot or a small jackpot, a time-saving game flag indicating the time-saving game state, and the time-saving game count (J) indicating the number of times the special symbol variable display can be executed in the time-saving game state.
Here, the "state at the time of winning" is information indicating the gaming state at the time of winning a big win or a small win. The gaming state is configured as either a non-time-saving gaming state or a time-saving gaming state.
The "non-time-shortened game state" or the "time-shortened game state" is a game state relating to the operation of the opening/closing member 11b of the second starting port 11a, and will be explained in detail later with reference to FIG.

The main CPU 10a refers to the game state setting table shown in Figure 14 and determines the time-saving game state and the number of time-saving times (J) based on the special symbol stop data at the end of the jackpot game and the winning state.

When a jackpot is won during a non-time-saving game state and the special symbol stop data for the first special symbol is 01, the number of time-saving games (J) is set to "99", and when the first special symbol stop data is 02 or 03, the number of time-saving games (J) is set to "1".
When a jackpot is won during the time-saving game state and the special symbol stop data for the second special symbol is any of 04 to 06, the number of time-saving games (J) is set to "99." Note that the number of time-saving games (J) shown in FIG. 14 is not limited to the number of times in this embodiment and can be set as appropriate.

(Special symbol variation pattern determination table)
15 to 18 are diagrams showing special symbol variation pattern determination tables that determine the variation patterns of special symbols.
FIG. 15 is a special symbol variation pattern determination table that is referenced when a special symbol variation display is performed based on the winning of a game ball into the first start hole 10 or the second start hole 11a in a non-time-reduction game state.

Figure 16 shows a special symbol variation pattern determination table that is referenced when displaying special symbol variations based on the second reserved number (U2) (maximum of 4) in a non-time-saving play state after the time-saving play state has ended, if the second reserved number (U2) is not "0" at the time when the static display following the display of the last special symbol variation in the previous time-saving play state has ended.

FIG. 17 is a special symbol variation pattern determination table that is referenced when displaying a variation of a special symbol based on the entry of a game ball into the second start hole 11a in the time-saving game state.
FIG. 18 is a special symbol variation pattern determination table that is referenced when displaying the variation of the special symbol that is the final variation based on the entry of a gaming ball into the second starting hole 11a in the time-saving gaming state.

The variation pattern determination tables in Figures 15 to 18 associate the type of special symbol, special symbol stop data, random number value for reach determination (reach selection rate (%)), number of reserved special symbols (number of reserved balls) (U1 or U2), random number value for special symbol variation (special symbol variation pattern selection rate (%)), special symbol variation pattern, special symbol variation time (s), and variation pattern designation command, and the random number value for reach determination (reach selection rate (%)) and random number value for special symbol variation (special symbol variation pattern selection rate (%)) are each set to achieve each selection rate (%).

The special symbol fluctuation pattern is capable of identifying at least the type of special symbol (first special symbol, second special symbol), the jackpot determination result, and the time period for the special symbol to fluctuate. Furthermore, if the jackpot determination result is a miss, the random number value for reach determination is referenced, but in the case of a jackpot, a reach occurs except in special cases, so the random number value for reach determination is not referenced. Furthermore, although a maximum of "4" can be stored as the reserved number of special symbols (U1 or U2), the fluctuation pattern is determined after subtracting "1" from the reserved number of special symbols, so "4" is not set as the reserved number of special symbols.

In the fluctuation pattern determination tables for special symbols in non-time-reduced game modes shown in Figures 15 and 16, the average fluctuation time of the special symbols is set to shorten as the number of reserved special symbols (U1 or U2) increases (reserved number = 2 or 3). For example, in the table in Figure 15, the fluctuation time for fluctuation pattern 01 (normal fluctuation) is set to 10 seconds, and the fluctuation time for fluctuation pattern 02 (reduced fluctuation) is set to 3 seconds.

In the variation pattern determination table for special symbols in time-saving game mode shown in Figure 16, if the number of reserved special symbols (U1 or U2) is 0, the variation time of the special symbols is set to be long, and if the number of reserved special symbols (U1 or U2) is not 0 (number of reserved symbols = 1 to 3), the variation time of the special symbols is set to be short. In the table in Figure 16, the variation time of variation pattern 27 (long variation) is set to 15 seconds, and the variation time of variation pattern 28 (shortened variation) is set to 3 seconds.

When the main CPU 110a refers to the special symbol variation pattern determination tables of Figures 15 to 18, it determines the special symbol variation pattern (including the special symbol variation time) based on the type of special symbol (starting hole), special symbol stop data, reach determination random number value (reach selection rate (%)), number of reserved special symbols (number of reserved balls) (U1 or U2), and special symbol variation random number value (special symbol variation pattern selection rate (%)). Then, based on the determined special symbol variation pattern, a special symbol variation pattern designation command is generated, and information on the special symbol variation pattern is sent to the performance control board 130.

Here, the special symbol variation pattern specification command consists of one byte of MODE data to identify the command classification and one byte of DATA data indicating the command content (function).

The effect control board 130 determines the effect content of the effect pattern 16a, etc. based on the special symbol variation pattern (variation pattern designation command). For reference, the rightmost column of the special symbol variation pattern determination table shown in Figures 15 to 18 lists the effect content of the variation effect using the effect pattern 16a.

Here, the variation effects include "normal variation," "shortened variation," and "long variation," in which three performance symbols 16a vary independently at high speed and stop without reaching a win. Normal variation, shortened variation, and long variation have different variation times, with the variation times being longer in the order of shortened variation < normal variation < long variation.

A "reach" is a variation mode that gives the player a sense of anticipation of a big win, in which some of the combinations of three effect symbols 16a temporarily stop, while the other effect symbols 16a change. For example, if "777" is set as the combination of three effect symbols 16a, two of the effect symbols 16a temporarily stop at "7", and the remaining effect symbols 16a change. A "temporary stop" refers to a mode in which the three effect symbols 16a slightly sway or change shape slightly, giving the player the impression that the effect symbols 16a are stopped.

Furthermore, a "normal reach" refers to a reach in which the same effect symbol 16a is temporarily stopped in the left and right regions while the effect symbol 16a in the central region changes, and is the reach with the lowest probability of winning the jackpot lottery (hereinafter referred to as "jackpot expectation probability"). Note that in this embodiment, a "normal reach" does not result in a jackpot, but it may be configured so that a jackpot can be achieved.

In addition, an "SP reach" is a super reach that occurs after a normal reach and has a higher chance of winning a jackpot than a normal reach. For example, of the three effect symbols 16a, the two left and right effect symbols 16a that are temporarily displayed are reduced in size and moved to the corners of the display screen of the image display device 16, and an SP reach effect is performed using almost the entire display screen of the image display device 16, giving the player hope that there is a high chance of winning a jackpot.

An "SPSP reach" is a special reach that occurs after a normal reach or an SP reach, and has a higher chance of winning a jackpot than a super reach. For example, of the three performance symbols 16a, the two left and right performance symbols 16a that are temporarily stopped are reduced in size and moved to the corners of the display screen of the image display device 16, and an SPSP reach performance is performed using almost the entire display screen of the image display device 16, which has a higher chance of winning a jackpot than an "SP reach."

In addition, a "full rotation reach" is a reach that guarantees a jackpot. For example, when all three performance symbols 16a are aligned with the same symbol, they slowly fluctuate, using almost the entire display screen of the image display device 16 to create a full rotation reach performance that has a higher chance of winning than an "SPSP reach."

In the "chance effect" when a variable display is executed based on the entry of a gaming ball into the second start opening 11a during the time-saving game mode, for example, a battle effect is executed in which a friendly character fights an enemy character. For example, if a small jackpot is won, a victory effect is executed in which the friendly character has the advantage over the enemy character, and the effect pattern 16a is displayed frozen in a form suggesting a small jackpot win (e.g., "333"). Then, in the subsequent small jackpot game, an operation effect (e.g., a text image display of "Aim for V!") is executed to encourage the gaming ball that entered the second large winning opening 14a to pass through the specific area 14e (V win).

When the game ball that has entered the second big winning hole 14a in a small winning game passes through the specific area 14e, a second type big winning occurs, and a big winning notification image (for example, a letter image of "V") is displayed to notify the player that a big winning has occurred.
On the other hand, in a small win game, unless the game ball that has entered the second big winning port 14a passes through the specific area 14e, it does not become a second-class big win, and a big win notification effect image that notifies the fact that a big win has occurred is not displayed.

When a game ball that has entered the second large winning slot 14a passes through the specific area 14e, resulting in a Type 2 jackpot, an operation effect is executed to encourage the game ball to pass through gate 12 in the right-side game area 4a2 (for example, a text image display of "Aim for the gate!" and an arrow image display or arrow image display only pointing in the direction of gate 12). Then, when the game ball passes through gate 12, a round of Type 2 jackpot gameplay begins; however, the game is controlled so that the round of Type 2 jackpot gameplay does not begin unless the game ball passes through gate 12. In other words, gate 12 functions as a round-start gate used to start a round of jackpot gameplay (activation of the device continuous operation device).

In this way, when a second-class jackpot is reached through a small jackpot in a time-shortened game state, even if an opening game is executed, the round game does not start unless the game ball passes through the gate 12, so the player can take a toilet break, etc.
In addition, gate 12 functions both as a lottery gate used for the above-mentioned normal symbol lottery and as a round start gate used to start a round of play (operation of the device continuous operation) in a jackpot game.
The lottery gate and the round start gate may be provided separately.

When the second special symbol is displayed in a time-saving game mode, an effect is executed to notify the player of the number of remaining display variations in the time-saving game mode (for example, the first time the second special symbol is displayed, the text "5 variations remaining" is displayed).

In addition, the "last chance effect" that is executed when the final variable display of the second special symbol is executed in the time-limited play state executes an effect similar to the "chance effect" described above. In this "last chance effect," an effect is executed that notifies the player that this is the final variable display in the time-limited play state (for example, the text "Last Chance!" is displayed).

Furthermore, in the non-time-saving play state after the time-saving play state has ended, if the second reserved number (U2) is not "0" at the time the stop display following the variable display of the last special symbol in the previous time-saving play state has ended, a "revenge effect" is executed in which, for example, an ally character fights an enemy character different from the enemy character in the "chance effect."

For example, if a jackpot is won, a battle effect is executed in which an ally character defeats an enemy character, and the effect pattern 16a is displayed in a manner that suggests a jackpot win.

Furthermore, for example, if a small prize is won, a victory effect is executed in which the friendly character has the advantage over the enemy character, and the effect pattern 16a is displayed in a manner that suggests a small prize has been won. Then, in the subsequent small prize game, an operation effect (for example, the display of a text image saying "Aim for V!") is executed to encourage the game ball to pass through the specific area 14e (V win).

When a game ball that has entered the second large prize opening 14a passes through the specific area 14e during a small jackpot game, resulting in a second-type jackpot, an image notification that a jackpot has been reached is displayed, followed by an operation prompting the game ball to pass through the gate 12 in the right-side game area 4a2 (for example, the display of a text image saying "Aim for the gate!" and an arrow image, or just the arrow image).

In this way, the "Chance Effect," "Last Chance Effect," and "Revenge Effect" are designed to create an effect that will pique the player's interest in whether or not they will win a small prize and whether or not the game ball that entered the second large prize slot 14a will subsequently pass through the specific area 14e, in order to make them hopeful of winning a small prize and winning a "Type 2 Big Prize."

FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a table relating to the normal symbols and the opening/closing member 11b of the second starting opening 11a.
FIG. 19(a) is a diagram showing a winning determination table for normal symbols used in the winning lottery for normal symbols.
FIG. 19(b) is a diagram showing a stopping symbol determination table for normal symbols corresponding to the winning lottery results (winning determination results) for normal symbols.
FIG. 19(c) is a diagram showing a normal symbol fluctuation pattern determination table for determining the normal symbol fluctuation time.
Figure 19(d) shows a table for determining the opening mode of the second starting opening, which is used to determine the opening mode of the opening/closing member in a winning state (auxiliary game) that occurs when a winning lottery for a normal pattern is won.

(Normal symbol winning table)
As shown in Figure 19 (a), the hit determination table associates the presence or absence of a time-saving game state, a random number value for hit determination obtained when the game ball passes through gate 12, and the result of the hit lottery determination.
The main CPU 110a refers to the win determination table shown in FIG. 19(a) and determines whether it is a "win" or a "lose" based on the current time-saving game state and the acquired random number value for win determination.

For example, according to the hit determination table shown in Figure 19(a), when in the non-time-saving game state, a single hit determination random number value of "127" is determined to be a hit, and when in the time-saving game state, 128 hit determination random numbers from "0" to "127" are determined to be hits. Therefore, the probability of a hit being determined when in the non-time-saving game state is 1/128, and the probability of a hit being determined when in the time-saving game state is 127/128.

(Normal symbol stopping symbol determination table)
The stopping pattern determination table shown in Figure 19 (b) corresponds to whether or not a time-saving game state is in effect, the lottery result of the winning lottery (winning determination result), the random number value for the winning pattern (normal pattern selection rate) obtained when the game ball passes through gate 12, the type of normal pattern (normal pattern stopping data), and the normal pattern designation command sent to the performance control board 130 as information indicating the type of normal pattern.

The main CPU 110a refers to the stop pattern determination table shown in Figure 19 (b) and determines the normal pattern and normal pattern stop data to be displayed on the normal pattern first display 19c based on the current time-saving game state, the lottery result of the winning lottery, and the obtained random number value for the winning pattern.
Then, when the normal symbol starts to change, a normal symbol designation command is determined as information indicating the type of normal symbol based on the determined type of normal symbol (normal symbol stop data) and is sent to the performance control board 130.

(Normal pattern variation pattern determination table)
The fluctuation pattern determination table shown in Figure 19 (c) corresponds the presence or absence of a time-saving game state, the result of the winning lottery, the random number value for determining the normal pattern fluctuation pattern obtained when the game ball passes through gate 12, the normal pattern fluctuation time, and the normal pattern fluctuation pattern designation command sent to the performance control board 130 as information indicating the normal pattern fluctuation time.

The main CPU 110a refers to the variation pattern determination table shown in Figure 19 (c) and determines the normal symbol variation time based on the current time-saving game state, the winning lottery result, and the random number value for determining the normal symbol variation pattern. When the normal symbol begins to vary, a normal symbol variation pattern designation command is determined based on the determined variation time, and is sent to the performance control board 130 as information indicating the normal symbol variation time.

According to the normal symbol fluctuation pattern determination table shown in Figure 19(c), the fluctuation time in the time-saving game state (3 seconds or 5 seconds) is configured to be shorter than the fluctuation time in the non-time-saving game state (30 seconds or 40 seconds).

(Table for determining the opening mode of the second starting port)
The opening mode determination table shown in Figure 19 (d) corresponds to the normal pattern (normal pattern stop data), the maximum number of times (s) the second start port 11a (opening/closing member 11b) can be opened, the first opening time and closing time of the second start port 11a (opening/closing member 11b), the interval time between the first closing time and the second opening time, and the second opening time and closing time.

The main CPU 110a refers to the opening mode determination table shown in Figure 19 (d) and determines the opening time, the maximum number of times the second start port 11a (opening/closing 11b) is opened, the first opening time, and the closing time based on the normal stop data.

In the opening mode determination table shown in Figure 19 (d), the opening mode based on normal symbol stop data = 03 (normal symbol 3) is a more advantageous opening mode for the player than the opening mode based on normal symbol stop data = 02 (normal symbol 2), and the opening mode based on normal symbol stop data = 04 (normal symbol 4) is a more advantageous opening mode for the player than the opening mode based on normal symbol stop data = 03 (normal symbol 3).

In the table of Figure 19(d), the normal symbols associated with winning during time-saving play may have normal stop data (normal symbols) other than normal stop data = 04 (normal symbol 4) with an opening time (s) of 6 seconds, or may have normal stop data (normal symbols) with an opening time (s) shorter than 6 seconds, for example.

Furthermore, according to the stop symbol determination table in Figure 19(b), the normal symbol stop data = 04 (normal symbol 4) that is most advantageous to the player when a win occurs in the time-saving play state is determined. As a result, in the time-saving play state, the second start hole 11a (opening/closing member 11b) operates to be more advantageous to the player than in the non-time-saving play state. Specifically, if a win is won in the lottery in the time-saving play state, the second start hole 11a will be open for a longer period of time than if a win is won in the lottery in the non-time-saving play state.

(Explanation of game status)
Next, the game state as the game progresses will be described.
The gaming states that the gaming machine 1 can take include a "non-time-saving gaming state" and a "time-saving gaming state" as states related to the operation of the opening/closing member 11b that opens and closes the second starting port 11a.

A "non-time-saving game state" is a game state in which the average fluctuation time of the normal symbol corresponding to the winning lottery result, which is held on the condition that the game ball has passed through gate 12, is set longer than in the "time-saving game state," and the opening time of the second starting port 11a when a winning lottery result is likely to be set shorter than in the "time-saving game state."

For example, when a gaming ball passes through gate 12, a winning normal symbol lottery is held, and the normal symbol is displayed in a variable manner on the first normal symbol display 19c. The normal symbol is then displayed as a static symbol 30 seconds after the variable display begins. If the lottery result is a winning symbol, the second starting port 11a is controlled to an open state for 0.2 seconds after the normal symbol is displayed as a static symbol.

In contrast, the "time-reduced game state" is a game state in which the average fluctuation time of the normal symbol corresponding to the result of the lottery for a winning normal symbol, which is held on the condition that the game ball has passed through gate 12, is set shorter than in the "non-time-reduced game state," and the opening time of second start port 11a when a winning symbol is drawn is set longer than in the "non-time-reduced game state" (for example, 2.5 seconds).

Furthermore, in the "non-time-saving game state," the probability of winning in the lottery for a normal symbol is set to, for example, 1/128. In the "time-saving game state," the probability of winning in the lottery for a normal symbol is set to, for example, 127/128, which is higher than the probability of winning in the non-time-saving game state. Therefore, in the "time-saving game state," when a game ball passes through the gate 12, the second starting port 11a is more likely to be controlled to the open mode than in the "non-time-saving game state."
In this way, the "time-shortened game state" is set to be more advantageous than the "non-time-shortened game state" in terms of the normal symbol variation time, the opening time of the second start port 11a, and the winning probability of the normal symbol winning lottery.

Next, we will explain the progress of play on gaming machine 1 using a flowchart.

(Main processing of the main control board)
20 is a flowchart illustrating the main processing executed by the main CPU 110a of the main control board 110. This main processing starts when the gaming machine 1 is powered on, and is executed continuously while the main control board 110 is running.

First, in step S1, the main CPU 110a disables all interrupts, then in step S2, it performs initial CPU settings such as setting internal registers, and in step S3, it performs processing to wait for the startup of other boards. Specifically, it waits for one second for the payout control board 120 and performance control board 130 to start up so that no commands from the main control board 110 are missed.

In step S4, the main CPU 110a permits access to the RWM area of the main RAM 110c, and in step S5, it sends a launch permission command to the payout control board 120. This causes the payout control unit 121 to perform processing to permit the launching device 26 to launch game balls.

In step S6, the main CPU 110a determines whether the backup flag indicating power restoration in the gaming RWM area of the main RAM 110c is "ON." If the backup flag is "ON" (step S6; Yes), it is assumed that power restoration has occurred and processing proceeds to step S7. If the backup flag is not "ON" (step S6; No), it is assumed that power has been turned on for the first time and processing proceeds to step S8.

In step S7, the main CPU 110a calculates a checksum (abnormality determination data) of the gaming RWM area (excluding the setting value area) of the main RAM 110c.
In step S8, the main CPU 110a determines whether a setting change operation has been performed. Specifically, it determines whether the setting key switch 58d and the RWM clear switch 58c are "ON." If a setting change operation has been performed (step S8; Yes), the process proceeds to step S9, assuming that the system will transition to setting change mode. If a setting change operation has not been performed (step S8; No), the process proceeds to step S10.

In step S9, the main CPU 110a performs a setting change process. Specifically, the current setting values saved in the setting value area of the gaming RWM area in the main RAM 110c are displayed on the performance display 111, and a setting change command is sent to the performance control board 130.

Furthermore, each time the RWM clear switch 58c is operated, the setting value is changed (updated) within the range of "1" to "4" and the updated setting value is displayed. When the setting key switch 58d is turned from "ON" to "OFF" to confirm the setting, the changed (updated) setting value is saved in the setting value area, the display of the setting value on the performance display 111 is terminated, and processing is performed to end the setting change mode.

When the performance control board 130 receives the setting change command, it performs processing to issue a setting change notification to notify the user that the setting value is being changed. Specifically, it displays a setting change screen on the image display device 16 to indicate that the setting value is being changed, and it lights up all of the board lighting devices 23 and frame lighting devices 27 in a specified light color (e.g., white) throughout the setting change. The audio output device 9 may also be configured to output a setting change notification sound ("Setting change in progress") to indicate that the setting is being changed.

In step S10, the main CPU 110a determines whether the checksum is normal. Specifically, it determines whether the checksum saved in the gaming RWM area matches the checksum calculated in step S7. If the checksum is normal (there is no abnormality in the data in the gaming RWM area), processing proceeds to step S11. If the checksum is abnormal (there is an abnormality in the data in the gaming RWM area), processing proceeds to step S34, assuming that the control state before the power was cut cannot be restored normally. Note that if the backup flag is not "ON," that is, if the power is being turned on for the first time, the checksum is determined to be abnormal.

In step S11, the main CPU 110a determines whether the setting value in the setting value area is an appropriate value (1 to 4). If it is determined that the setting value in the setting value area is within the appropriate range (step S11; Yes), processing proceeds to step S12. If it is determined that the setting value in the setting value area is not within the appropriate range (step S11; No), processing proceeds to step S34.

In step S34, the main CPU 110a performs processing for an irrecoverable error (RWM abnormality). Specifically, it displays error information "E" indicating an irrecoverable error on an error indicator (not shown) provided on the power supply board 160, sends an irrecoverable error designation command to the performance control board 130 indicating that an irrecoverable error has occurred, then sets an interrupt prohibition to prohibit timer interrupts, clears the output port, and then outputs an irrecoverable error signal (security signal) indicating the occurrence of an irrecoverable error from the security signal terminal of the game information output terminal board 90, and waits until the power supply is completely cut off. As a result, the performance control board 130 performs processing to issue an irrecoverable error notification.

An "unrecoverable error (RWM abnormality)" is an RWM abnormality state in which game control is not performed (the game control is not transferred) because the checksum result indicates an abnormality in the data in the game RWM area of the main RAM 110c, and it cannot be cleared unless a setting change process is executed. Therefore, when an unrecoverable error occurs, the error will not be cleared even if the power switch provided on the power supply board 160 is turned "OFF" and then turned "ON" without performing a setting change operation, but it will be cleared if the power switch is turned "ON" with a setting change operation.
Incidentally, the "irrecoverable error" is not cleared unless a setting change process is executed, but it may also be cleared when an RWM clear is executed without a setting change process.

An "irrecoverable error notification (RWM abnormality notification)" is a notification to make the user aware that an irrecoverable error has occurred, and involves displaying an irrecoverable error screen ("This is an irrecoverable error. Please change the settings") on the display unit of the image display device 16, lighting all of the panel lighting devices 23 and frame lighting devices 27 in a specified color (e.g., red) until the power is turned off, and outputting an irrecoverable error sound ("This is an irrecoverable error" + buzzer sound) from the audio output device 9 indicating that an irrecoverable error has occurred until the power is turned off.

In step S12, the main CPU 110a determines whether the RWM clear switch 58c is "ON." If the RWM clear switch 58c is "ON" (step S12; Yes), processing proceeds to step S13. If the RWM clear switch 58c is not "ON" (step S12; No), processing proceeds to step S16.

In step S13, the main CPU 110a performs an RWM clear process.
In step S14, the main CPU 110a transmits a power-on command to the payout control board 120 and the presentation control board 130, indicating that the game control state has been initialized (RWM cleared).
Next, in step S15, the main CPU 110a transmits a game state designation command to the effect control board 130, and proceeds to step S21. As a result, the effect control board 130 performs processing to execute a power-on notification.

A "power-on notification" is a notification to make the player aware that the game control state has been initialized, and involves lighting up all of the board lighting devices 23 and frame lighting devices 27 in a predetermined light color (e.g., red) for a predetermined period of time (e.g., 60 seconds), or outputting a power-on notification sound (voice message "RAM has been cleared" + buzzer sound) from the audio output device 9 for a predetermined period of time (e.g., 30 seconds) indicating that the RWM area has been initialized. The power-on notification may also display an initialization image (a text image of "RAM cleared") on the image display device 16 to notify the player that the RWM has been cleared.

In step S16, the main CPU 110a determines whether a setting confirmation operation has been performed. Specifically, it determines whether the setting key switch 58d is "ON." If the setting key switch 58d is "ON" (step S16; Yes), the process proceeds to step S17 to transition to setting confirmation mode. If the setting key switch 58d is not "ON" (step S16; No), the process proceeds to step S18 to restore the game control state to the state before the power was turned off.

In step S17, the main CPU 110a performs a setting confirmation process. Specifically, the main CPU 110a displays the current setting value stored in the setting value area of the gaming RWM area on one 7-segment LED of the performance indicator 111, and transmits a setting confirmation command to the performance control board 130.
Furthermore, when the setting key switch 58d is turned from "ON" to "OFF" to terminate the confirmation, the display of the setting value on the performance display 111 is terminated and a confirmation process is performed to terminate the setting confirmation mode.

When the performance control board 130 receives the setting confirmation command, it performs processing to issue a setting confirmation notification to notify the user that a setting confirmation is being performed. Specifically, it displays a setting confirmation screen on the image display device 16 to indicate that a setting confirmation is in progress, and it lights up all of the board lighting devices 23 and frame lighting devices 27 in a specified light color (e.g., white) while the setting confirmation is in progress. The audio output device 9 may also be configured to output a setting confirmation notification sound ("Confirming setting values") to indicate that a setting confirmation is in progress.

In step S18, the main CPU 110a clears (clears to 0) the backup flag and checksum set in the gaming RWM area and sets the gaming RWM area for when power is restored. This returns (restores) the game progress state (control state) to the state before the power was cut off, making it possible to resume playing from the state before the power was cut off.

In step S19, the main CPU 110a determines whether the complete function activation flag is "ON" when power is restored. If the complete function activation flag is "ON" (step S19; Yes), the process proceeds to the unrecoverable error (RWM abnormality) processing of step S34 described above. If the complete function flag is not "ON" (step S19; No), the process proceeds to step S20.

Here, "activation of the complete function" refers to a function that stops functions related to game progress and notifies the user that functions related to game progress will be stopped when the upper limit of balls that can be paid out in a day on a gaming machine reaches a predetermined value. Details of the activation of the complete function will be provided later.

In step S20, the main CPU 110a clears (initializes) the counter value of the reference value counter (C) to 0. This prevents the counter value of the reference value counter from being carried over from before the power was turned off.

Here, the "reference value counter" is used to determine whether or not to activate the complete function. Whether or not to activate the complete function is determined based on whether the updated counter value of the reference value counter has reached a predetermined reference value. When the counter value of the reference value counter reaches the predetermined reference value, it is determined that the complete function activation condition has been met, and the complete function is activated. Details of the reference value counter will be discussed later.

In step S21, the main CPU 110a sends a power restoration command to the effect control board 130, indicating that the game control state has been restored and the game state before the power outage (power outage) occurred. This causes the effect control board 130 to perform processing to terminate the setting confirmation notification, etc., described below, and execute a power restoration notification.

The "power restoration notification" is a notification to make the player aware that the game control state will return to the state it was in before the power outage occurred, and involves displaying a power restoration image (a text image of "power restoration") on the image display device 16, lighting all of the frame lighting devices 27 and board lighting devices 23 in a predetermined light color (e.g., red) for a predetermined period of time (e.g., 60 seconds), or outputting a power restoration notification sound ("Power has been restored" + buzzer sound) from the audio output device 9 for a predetermined period of time (e.g., 30 seconds) indicating that power has been restored (from the power outage).

In step S22, the main CPU 110a sends other commands (such as a special symbol storage command indicating the number of reserved first special symbols (U1) and the number of reserved second special symbols (U2), and a regular symbol storage command indicating the number of reserved regular symbols (G)) to the performance control board 130. This enables the performance control board 130 to grasp the number of reserved special symbols and the number of reserved regular symbols, and performs processing to display the first reserved icon and the second reserved icon on the image display device 16.

In step S23, the main CPU 110a sends a setting value designation command to the effect control board 130. This allows the effect control board 130 to grasp the current setting value. Note that this setting value designation command may be sent to the effect control board 130 before the power-on designation command or power-restoration designation command is sent. The setting value designation command may also be sent each time the display of a special symbol begins to change, or each time a jackpot game begins.

In step S24, the main CPU 110a activates a CTC (Counter Timer Circuit) to generate a timer interrupt (4 milliseconds), and in step S25, permits all interrupts.
In step S26, the main CPU 110a performs a process of updating the random number value for reach determination and the random number value for special pattern determination, which are used to determine the fluctuation pattern (fluctuation time) of the special pattern, and in step S27, performs an initial value random number value update process to update the initial value random number value for jackpot determination, the initial value random number value for special pattern determination, the initial value random number value for hit determination, and the initial value random number value for normal pattern determination.

Next, in step S28, the main CPU 110a determines whether a power interruption (power outage) has occurred. Specifically, it determines whether a power interruption detection signal has been input from the power interruption detection circuit 162 of the power supply board 160. If a power interruption detection signal has not been input (step S28; No), the process proceeds to step S24. If a power interruption detection signal has been input (step S28; Yes), the process proceeds to step S27.

In step S29, the main CPU 110a sets an interrupt prohibition to prohibit timer interrupts.
In step S30, the main CPU 110a performs processing to clear the output port.
Next, in step S31, the main CPU 110a calculates a checksum (abnormality determination data) of the gaming RWM area (excluding the setting value area) of the main RAM 110c and performs processing to save it in the gaming RWM area.

In step S32, the main CPU 110a performs processing to turn "ON" the backup flag in the gaming RWM area of the main RAM 110c. Next, in step S33, the main CPU 110a performs processing to prohibit RWM access and waits until the supply of power supply voltage is completely cut off.

(Main control board RWM clear processing)
FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating the RMW clear process by the main control board 110.
In step S40, the main CPU 110a initializes (clears to 0) the game RWM area of the main RAM 110c except for the setting value area. As a result, the game progress state is initialized to the initial state (the state at the time of shipping of the gaming machine 1), and the data (other than the setting values) in the game RWM area before the RWM is cleared is not carried over.

In step S41, the main CPU 110a initializes (clears to 0) the counter value of the reference value counter (C). This means that the counter value of the reference value counter (C) before the RWM was cleared is not carried over.

In step S42, the main CPU 110a determines whether the complete function activation flag is "ON." If the complete function activation flag is not "ON" (step S42; No), processing proceeds to step S44. If the complete function activation flag is "ON" (step S42; Yes), processing proceeds to step S41.

In step S43, the main CPU 110a sets the complete function activation flag to "OFF" and moves the process to step S44.
In step S44, the main CPU 110a sends an RWM clear command to the performance control board 130.

In this embodiment, whether or not to execute the process to turn off the complete function activation flag during the RWM clear process is determined depending on whether the complete function activation flag is ON, but this is not limited to this. For example, the RWM clear process may be designed to always execute the process to turn off the complete function activation flag regardless of whether the complete function activation flag is ON or OFF. This eliminates the need to branch the process depending on the state of the complete function activation flag, which has the effect of reducing control capacity.

(Timer interrupt processing on the main control board)
FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating the timer interrupt process by the main control board 110.
A reset clock pulse generating circuit provided on the main control board 110 generates a clock pulse at a predetermined cycle (4 ms), thereby executing the timer interrupt process described below.

In step S101, the main CPU 110a saves the information stored in the register in the stack area.
In step S102, the main CPU 110a performs time control processing to update various timer counters, such as updating a special symbol time counter, updating a special game timer counter such as the opening time of the special electric role (big prize openings 13a, 14a), updating a normal symbol time counter, updating an opening time counter of the normal electric role (second start opening 11a), etc. Specifically, the main CPU 110a performs processing to subtract "1" from the special symbol time counter, special game timer counter, normal symbol time counter, and opening time counter of the normal electric role.

In step S103, the main CPU 110a performs random number update processing for the random number values for determining a jackpot, the random number value for determining a special symbol, the random number value for determining a special symbol variation pattern, the random number value for determining a win, the random number value for determining a normal symbol, and the random number value for determining a normal symbol variation pattern. Specifically, "1" is added to each random number counter to update the random number counter. If the result of the addition exceeds the maximum value of the random number range, the random number counter is reset to "0", and if the random number counter has completed one cycle, the random number is updated from the initial value random number at that time.

In step S104, the main CPU 110a performs an initial random number value update process to update the initial random number value for determining a big win, the initial random number value for determining a special symbol, the initial random number value for determining a win, and the initial random number value for determining a normal symbol.
In step S105, the main CPU 110a performs input control processing. In the input control processing, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not there has been input to each of the first start hole detection switch 10a, the second start hole detection switch 11c, the gate detection switch 12a, the first large prize hole detection switch 13c, the second large prize hole detection switch 14c, the specific area detection switch 14f, and the general prize hole detection switch 14a. The details of the input control processing will be described later.

In step S106, the main CPU 110a performs a reference value counter update process to calculate and update the counter value of the reference value counter (C). Details of the reference value counter update process will be described later.
In step S107, the main CPU 110a performs special symbol special electric control processing to determine the special symbol determination information (random number value for determining a big win, random number value for determining a special symbol, random number value for determining a reach, random number value for determining a variation pattern) acquired based on the entry of the gaming ball into the first start port 10 or the second start port 11a, display the variation of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, open/close the first large prize opening 13a, open/close the second large prize opening 14a, set the game state, etc. Details of the special symbol special electric control processing will be described later.

In step S108, the main CPU 110a performs normal symbol and normal power control processing to determine the normal symbol determination information obtained based on the passage of the gaming ball through the gate 12, display the normal symbol fluctuations, open and close the opening/closing member 11b of the second starting port 11a (auxiliary game), etc.

In step S109, the main CPU 110a performs payout control processing. In the payout control processing, the main CPU 110a references various prize ball counters stored in the main RAM 110c and performs payout control processing to send payout number designation commands corresponding to various winning slots to the payout control board 120. As a result, the payout control board 120 executes processing to pay out prize balls from the payout device 100.

In step S110, the main CPU 110a performs an abnormality determination process. During the abnormality determination process, the main CPU 110a detects the occurrence of a magnetic error or radio wave error based on the input signals from the magnetic detection sensor 58a and the radio wave detection sensor 58b, and if detected, sends a magnetic abnormality error detection command or a radio wave abnormality error detection command to the performance control board 130.

Furthermore, if the main CPU 110a determines in the abnormality determination process that the counter value of the reference value counter (C) updated in the reference value counter update process of step S106 has reached a preset reference value, it sends a complete function activation command to the performance control board 130.

The main CPU 110a detects the door open state based on the detection signal from the open detection switch 31a, and if detected, sends a door open error detection command to the performance control board 130.

The main CPU 110a detects a blockage of game balls in the passageway that dispenses game balls from the game ball storage section based on the detection signal from the tray full detection switch 32a, and if detected, sends a tray full error detection command to the performance control board 130.

When the main CPU 110a detects that the error state has been cleared based on the state of the input signal and detection signal, the main CPU 110a sends an error clear command to the performance control board 130. Furthermore, the performance control board 130 again sends signals to the image control unit 140 and lamp control unit 150 to notify them of the error detection and error clearing.

The main CPU 110a will not send an error release signal depending on the type of error that has occurred in the gaming machine 1. That is, an error release signal will be sent for full trays, an open door, or a jammed ball, but an error release signal will not be sent for the detection of unauthorized radio waves.

In step S111, the main CPU 110a performs a game ball counting process (information program). Specifically, it performs processing to count (collect) the number of payouts (number of paid-out balls) that will be paid out as a result of game balls entering various winning slots, the number of outs (number of out balls) that have been ejected from the game area 4a (launched into the game area), etc.

In step S112, the main CPU 110a performs a performance information calculation process (information program). Specifically, it performs a process to calculate the performance information of the gaming machine from the number of payouts (number of paid-out balls) and the number of outs (number of out balls) counted (collected) in the gaming ball counting process. Details of the performance information calculation process will be described later.

In step S113, the main CPU 110a performs a performance display data setting process (information program). Specifically, it performs a process to set performance display data for displaying the performance information calculated in the performance information calculation process on the performance display device 111.

In step S114, the main CPU 110a performs data creation processing. Specifically, data creation processing is performed on the external output data (game information) output from the game information output terminal board 90, drive control data output to the second start opening/closing solenoid 11d and the first large prize opening/closing solenoid 13d, drive control data output to the second large prize opening/closing solenoid 14d, drive control data output to the distribution solenoid 22b, various display control data output to the first special symbol first display 19a, the second special symbol first display 19b, the normal symbol first display 19c, the first special symbol reserved first display 19d, the second special symbol reserved first display 19e, and the normal symbol reserved first display 19f, and the counter value of the reference value counter updated in the reference value counter update processing.

In step S115, the main CPU 110a performs port output processing to output signals such as the external output data, drive control data, and counter value data of the reference value counter created in step S114 above. The main CPU 110a also performs display output processing to output signals such as the display control data created in step S114. Furthermore, the main CPU 110a performs command output processing to output commands set in the transmission buffer of the main RAM 110c to other boards.

In step S116, the main CPU 110a restores the information saved in step S101 to the register of the main CPU 110a and ends this timer interrupt process.

(Input control processing)
FIG. 23 is a flowchart illustrating the input control process by the main control board 110.
First, in step S121, the main CPU 110a determines whether a detection signal has been input from the general winning opening detection switch 14a, i.e., whether a gaming ball has entered the general winning opening 14. When the main CPU 110a receives a detection signal from the general winning opening detection switch 14a, it adds predetermined data to the general winning opening counter used for prize balls to update it.

In step S122, the main CPU 110a determines whether it has received a detection signal from the first large prize opening detection switch 13c, i.e., whether a gaming ball has entered the first large prize opening 13a. If the main CPU 110a receives a detection signal from the first large prize opening detection switch 13c, it updates the large prize opening prize ball counter used for prize balls by adding predetermined data to it, and also updates the counter in the large prize opening ball counter (C) memory area, which counts the gaming balls that have entered the first large prize opening 13a, by adding data to it.

In step S123, the main CPU 110a determines whether it has received a detection signal from the second large prize opening detection switch 14c, i.e., whether a gaming ball has entered the second large prize opening 14a. If the main CPU 110a receives a detection signal from the second large prize opening detection switch 14c, it updates the large prize opening prize ball counter used for prize balls by adding predetermined data to it, and also updates the counter in the large prize opening ball counter (C) memory area, which counts gaming balls that have entered the second large prize opening 14a, by adding data to it.

In step S124, the main CPU 110a determines whether a detection signal has been input from the first start hole detection switch 10a, that is, whether the gaming ball has entered the first start hole 10 or not.
In step S125, the main CPU 110a determines whether a detection signal has been input from the second start hole detection switch 11c, that is, whether the gaming ball has entered the second start hole 11b.

When the main CPU 110a receives a detection signal from the second start hole detection switch 11c, it performs the same second start hole detection switch input process as step S124 above. However, in this second start hole detection switch input process, it adds "1" to the second special symbol reserved number (U2) memory area, and stores the extracted random number values for jackpot determination, special symbol determination, and reach determination in the second special symbol memory area. In other words, the only difference between the first start hole detection switch input process and the second start hole detection switch input process is the memory area that stores various data; all other processes are the same.

In step S126, the main CPU 110a determines whether a detection signal has been input from the gate detection switch 12a, that is, whether the gaming ball has passed through the gate 12 or not.
In step S127, the main CPU 110a determines whether a detection signal has been input from the specific area detection switch 14f, that is, whether the gaming ball that entered the second big winning hole 14a has passed through the specific area 14e.

In step S128, the main CPU 110a determines whether a detection signal has been input from an out ball detection switch (not shown), which detects out balls that have been fired into the play area 4a and ejected from the play area 4a. If a detection signal has been input from the out ball detection switch, the out ball counter is incremented by "1" to update the counter value.

In step S129, the main CPU 110a performs winning confirmation detection switch input processing. In this winning confirmation detection switch input processing, it determines whether a detection signal has been input from the winning confirmation detection switch 58e, subtracts "1" from the winning ball counter (D) to update it (D←D-1), and determines whether the value of the winning ball counter (D) is within a predetermined range of judgment values (lower limit value < D < upper limit value). If it is outside the range of judgment values, it assumes that an abnormal winning has occurred and sets an abnormal winning error designation command in the performance transmission data storage area. If it is within the range of judgment values, the winning confirmation detection switch input processing ends.

As a result, an error designation command for abnormal winning is sent to the performance control board 130, and the sub-CPU 130a of the performance control board 130, which receives the error designation command for abnormal winning, issues an abnormal winning error notification to notify the player that an abnormal winning error has occurred.

(First start port detection switch input processing)
Figure 24 is a flowchart explaining the first start hole detection switch input processing by the main control board 110.
In step S131, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not a detection signal has been input from the first start hole detection switch 10a. If a detection signal has been input from the first start hole detection switch 10a (step S131; Yes), the main CPU 110a proceeds to step S132. If a detection signal has not been input from the first start hole detection switch 10a (step S131; No), the main CPU 110a terminates the first start hole detection switch input process.
In step S132, the main CPU 110a performs a process of updating the start port prize ball counter used for prize balls by adding predetermined data to the counter.

Next, in step S133, the main CPU 110a determines whether the number of reserved items set in the first reserved number (U1) memory area is less than 4. If the number of reserved items set in the first reserved number (U1) memory area is less than 4 (step S133; Yes), the process proceeds to step S134. If the number of reserved items set in the first reserved number (U1) memory area is not less than 4 (step S133; No), the first start port detection switch input process ends.

In step S134, the main CPU 110a adds "1" to the first reservation number (U1) storage area and stores the result.
In step S135, the main CPU 110a acquires a random number value for determining a jackpot, searches through available memory units in the first special symbol memory area in order starting from the first memory unit, and stores the acquired random number value for determining a jackpot in an available memory unit.
In step S136, the main CPU 110a acquires a random number value for determining a special symbol, searches through available memory units in the first special symbol memory area in order starting from the first memory unit, and stores the acquired random number value for the special symbol in an available memory unit.

In step S137, the main CPU 110a acquires gaming random number values (random number values for reach determination and random number values for variation pattern determination), searches through available memory units in the first special symbol memory area, starting with the first memory unit, and stores the acquired gaming random number values (random number values for reach determination and random number values for variation pattern determination) in an available memory unit.

In step S138, the main CPU 110a performs a first preliminary determination process, which refers to a preliminary determination table (not shown) corresponding to the current game state, and determines first start winning information for indicating the determination information of the first start gate in advance based on the random number values obtained in steps S135 to S137.
In step S139, the main CPU 110a sets a first start port winning designation command based on the first start winning information determined in the first preliminary judgment process in step S138 in the transmission data storage area for performance.

This allows the first start winning information to be sent to the presentation control board 130 as a first start winning designation command, and the sub-CPU 130a of the presentation control board 130, which receives the first start winning designation command, can analyze the first start winning designation command and execute pre-reading effects such as a continuous preview that executes a predetermined preview effect across one or more variable displays executed before the display of the special pattern corresponding to the first start winning designation command begins, or a hold change preview that changes the display mode of the hold icon.

However, the first advance determination process is based solely on the game state at the time the game ball enters the first starting hole 10. Therefore, if the game state changes before the first reservation made by the ball entering is processed, the result of the jackpot determination process (described below) may differ from the result of the first advance determination process.

In step S140, the main CPU 110a references the value stored in the first reserved number (U1) storage area and sets the first special symbol storage designation command corresponding to the first reserved number (U1) updated in step S134 in the performance transmission data storage area.

In step S141, the main CPU 110a sets first special pattern reserved display data in a predetermined processing area to cause the first special pattern reserved first display 19d to display the first reserved number (by lighting or flashing the LED), and then ends this first start hole detection switch input processing. As a result, if the first special pattern reserved display data has been set in the predetermined processing area, display control data is created in step S114 above, and the created data is output in step S115, causing the first reserved number to be displayed on the first special pattern reserved first display 19d.

(Second start port detection switch input processing)
Figure 25 is a flowchart explaining the second start hole detection switch input processing by the main control board 110.
In step S151, the main CPU 110a determines whether a detection signal has been input from the second start hole detection switch 11c. If a detection signal has been input from the second start hole detection switch 11c (step S151; Yes), the main CPU 110a proceeds to step S152. If a detection signal has not been input from the second start hole detection switch 11c (step S151; No), the main CPU 110a terminates the second start hole detection switch input process.

In step S152, the main CPU 110a performs a process of updating the start port prize ball counter used for prize balls by adding predetermined data to the counter.
Next, in step S153, the main CPU 110a adds "1" to the ball entry counter (D) indicating the number of game balls that have entered the second starting hole 11a, thereby updating it (D←D+1).

In step S154, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not auxiliary play is in progress. If auxiliary play is in progress (step S154; Yes), processing proceeds to step S159. If auxiliary play is not in progress (step S154; No), processing proceeds to step S155.

In step S155, the main CPU 110a adds "1" to the illegal ball entry counter (E) for monitoring illegal ball entries into the second starting hole 11a, and updates it (E←E+1).
In step S156, the main CPU 110a determines whether the value of the illegal ball entry counter is greater than a specified number (10). If it is greater than the specified number (step S156; Yes), the process proceeds to step S157. If it is less than the specified number (step S156; No), the process proceeds to step S160.

In step S157, the main CPU 110a sets an illegal goal error designation command in the performance transmission data storage area, assuming that an illegal goal has occurred. This causes the illegal goal error designation command to be sent to the performance control board 130, and the sub-CPU 130a of the performance control board 130, which receives the illegal goal error designation command, issues an illegal goal error notification to notify that an illegal goal error has occurred.

In step S158, the main CPU 110a clears the value of the illegal ball entry counter (E) to "0".
In step S159, the main CPU 110a adds "1" to the second starting hole ball entry counter (L) to update it (L←L+1).

Next, in step S160, the main CPU 110a determines whether the number of reserved items set in the second reserved number (U2) storage area is less than 4. If the number of reserved items set in the second reserved number (U2) storage area is less than 4 (step S160; Yes), the process proceeds to step S154. If the number of reserved items set in the second reserved number (U2) storage area is not less than 4 (step S160; No), the second start port detection switch input process ends.

In step S161, the main CPU 110a adds "1" to the second special symbol reserved number (U2) memory area and stores the added number.
In step S162, the main CPU 110a acquires a random number value for determining a jackpot, searches through the available memory units in the second special symbol memory area in order starting from the first memory unit, and stores the acquired random number value for determining a jackpot in the available memory unit.

In step S163, the main CPU 110a acquires a random number value for determining a special symbol, searches through the available memory units in the second special symbol memory area in order from the first memory unit, and stores the acquired random number value for the special symbol in the available memory unit.
In step S164, the main CPU 110a acquires random number values for game play (random number values for reach determination and random number values for variation pattern determination), searches through available memory units in the second special pattern memory area in order starting from the first memory unit, and stores the acquired random number values for game play (random number values for reach determination and random number values for variation pattern determination) in an available memory unit.

In step S165, the main CPU 110a performs a second preliminary determination process, in which the main CPU 110a refers to a preliminary determination table (not shown) corresponding to the current game state, and determines second start winning information for indicating the determination information of the second start gate in advance based on the random number values obtained in steps S162 to S164.
In step S166, the main CPU 110a sets a second start port winning designation command based on the second start winning information determined in the second pre-determination process in step S165 in the transmission data storage area for performance.

This allows the first start winning information to be sent to the presentation control board 130 as a second start winning designation command, and the sub-CPU 130a of the presentation control board 130, which receives the second start winning designation command, analyzes the second start winning designation command and can execute pre-reading effects such as a continuous preview that executes a predetermined preview effect across one or more variable displays executed before the variable display of the special pattern corresponding to the second start winning designation command begins, or a hold change preview that changes the display mode of the hold icon.

However, the second advance judgment process is based solely on the game state at the time the game ball enters the second starting hole 11a. Therefore, if the game state changes before the second reservation made by the ball entering is processed, the result of the jackpot judgment process described below may differ from the result of the second advance judgment process.

In step S167, the main CPU 110a references the value stored in the second reserved number (U2) storage area and sets the second special symbol storage designation command corresponding to the second reserved number (U2) updated in step S161 in the performance transmission data storage area.

In step S168, the main CPU 110a sets second special pattern reserved display data in a predetermined processing area to cause the second special pattern reserved first display 19e to display the second reserved number (by lighting or flashing the LED), and then ends this second start hole detection switch input processing. As a result, if the second special pattern reserved display data has been set in the predetermined processing area, display control data is created in step S114, and the created data is output in step S115, causing the second reserved number to be displayed on the second special pattern reserved first display 19e.

(Gate detection switch input processing)
FIG. 26 is a flowchart illustrating gate detection switch input processing by the main control board 110.

In step S171, the main CPU 110a determines whether a detection signal has been input from the gate detection switch 12a. If the main CPU 110a determines that a detection signal has been input from the gate detection switch 12a (step S171; Yes), it proceeds to step S172. If the main CPU 110a determines that a detection signal has not been input from the gate detection switch 12a (step S171; No), it terminates this gate detection switch input processing.

In step S172, the main CPUa determines whether the jackpot game flag is ON. If the main CPU 110a determines that the jackpot game flag is ON (step S172; Yes), it proceeds to step S178. If the main CPU 110a determines that the jackpot game flag is not ON (step S172; No), it proceeds to step S173.

In step S173, the main CPU 110a determines whether the number of reserved normal symbols (G) is less than 4. If the main CPU 10a determines that the number of reserved normal symbols (G) is less than 4 (step S173; Yes), it stores the value obtained by adding "1" to the number of reserved normal symbols (G) stored in the number of reserved normal symbols (G) memory area as the new number of reserved normal symbols (G). If the main CPU 110a determines in step S173 that the number of reserved normal symbols (G) is not less than 4 (step S173; No), it ends this gate detection switch input process.

In step S174, the main CPU 110a acquires a random number value for determining whether a win has been made, searches through the available memory units in the normal symbol reserved memory area in order from the first memory unit, and stores the acquired random number value for determining whether a win has been made in the available memory unit.
In step S175, the main CPU 110a acquires a random number value for pattern determination, searches through available memory units in the normal pattern reserve memory area in order starting from the first memory unit, and stores the acquired random number value for pattern determination in an available memory unit.

In step S176, the main CPU 110a acquires a random number value for determining the normal symbol fluctuation pattern, searches through available memory units in the normal symbol reserve memory area, starting with the first memory unit, and stores the acquired random number value for determining the normal symbol fluctuation pattern in an available memory unit. The random number value for winning determination, the random number value for symbol determination, and the random number value for determining the normal symbol fluctuation pattern are stored in predetermined memory units in the normal symbol reserve memory area.

In step S177, the main CPU 110a references the value stored in the normal symbol reserve number (G) memory area and sets the normal symbol storage designation command corresponding to the normal symbol reserve number (G) updated in step S174 in the performance transmission data storage area.

In step S178, the main CPU 110a sets normal symbol reserve display data in a predetermined processing area to cause the normal symbol reserve first display 19f to display the number of normal symbols reserved (by lighting or flashing the LED), and ends this gate detection switch input processing. As a result, if the normal symbol reserve display data has been set in the predetermined processing area, display control data is created in step S114, and the created data is output in step S115, causing the number of normal symbols reserved to be displayed on the normal symbol reserve first display 19f.

If it is determined in step S172 that the big win game flag is ON, the main CPU 110a executes a round start flag determination process (FIG. 35) to be described later in step S179.
In step S180, the main CPU 110a executes a round start process, which will be described later, and ends this gate detection switch input process.
In this way, even when a detection signal is input from the gate detection switch 12a, if the jackpot game flag is ON, the number of reserved normal symbols is not calculated and the random number value is not obtained.

(Specific area detection switch input processing)
FIG. 27 is a flowchart illustrating the specific area detection switch input processing by the main control board 110.
In step S142, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not a detection signal has been input from the specific area detection switch 14f. If the main CPU 110a determines that a detection signal has been input from the specific area detection switch 14f (step S142; Yes), the process proceeds to step S143. If the main CPU 110a determines that a detection signal has not been input (step S142; No), the process ends the current specific area detection switch input process.

In step S143, the main CPU 110a turns on the specific area winning flag. This specific area winning flag is a flag that indicates that the gaming ball has passed through the specific area 14e.

In step S144, the main CPU 110a sets a specific area winning designation command indicating that the gaming ball has passed through the specific area 14e in the performance transmission data storage area, and ends this specific area detection switch input process.

(Reference value counter update process)
FIG. 28 is a flowchart illustrating the reference value counter update process performed by the main control board 110.
In step S145, the main CPU 110a determines whether the counter value of the out ball counter has been updated in the out ball detection switch input process in step S128. If the main CPU 110a determines that the counter value of the out ball counter has been updated (step S145; Yes), it proceeds to step S147, and if it determines that the counter value of the out ball counter has not been updated (step S145; No), it proceeds to step S146.

In step S146, the main CPU 110a determines whether any of the prize ball counters for the various prize slots (first start slot 10, second start slot 11a, first large prize slot 13a, second large prize slot 14a, general prize slot 21) have been updated. If the main CPU 110a determines that none of the prize ball counters have been updated (step S146; No), it terminates this reference value counter update process. If it determines that any of the prize ball counters have been updated (step S146; Yes), it proceeds to step S147.

In step S147, the main CPU 110a performs a calculation process for the reference value counter based on the updated counter value of the out ball counter and the updated counter value of the prize ball counter, and updates the counter value of the reference value counter. The reference value counter will be explained in detail in Figures 49 and 50.

In step S148, the main CPU 110a sets a reference value counter update command indicating the updated counter value of the reference value counter in the performance transmission data storage area, and ends the current reference value counter update process. If a reference value counter update command has been set in the performance transmission data storage area, counter value data for the reference value counter is created in step S114 above, and the created data is output in step S115.

(Special diagram special electric control processing)
Figure 29 is a flowchart explaining the special chart special power control processing by the main control board 110.
In step S181, the main CPU 110a loads the value of the special picture special power processing data, and in step S182, references the branch address from the loaded special picture special power processing data.

In step S183, if the special symbol special power processing data = 0 (step S183; Yes), the main CPU 110a transfers processing to the special symbol memory determination process of step S184, and if the special symbol special power processing data is not = 0 (step S183; No), the main CPU 110a transfers processing to step S185.

In step S185, if the special symbol special power processing data = 1 (step S185; Yes), the main CPU 110a transfers processing to the special symbol change processing in step S186, and if the special symbol special power processing data = 1 is not (step S185; No), it determines in step S187 whether the special symbol special power processing data = 2.

In step S187, if the special symbol special power processing data = 2 (step S187; Yes), the main CPU 110a transfers processing to the special symbol stop processing in step S188, and if the special symbol special power processing data = 2 (step S187; No), the main CPU 110a transfers processing to step S189.

In step S189, if the special symbol special power processing data = 3 (step S189; Yes), the main CPU 110a transfers processing to the jackpot game processing in step S190; if the special symbol special power processing data = 3 (step S189; No), the main CPU 110a transfers processing to step S191.

In step S191, if the special symbol special power processing data = 4 (step S191; Yes), the main CPU 110a transfers processing to small win game processing in step S192, and if the special symbol special power processing data = 4 (step S191; No), it transfers processing to step S193.

In step S193, if the special symbol special power processing data = 5 (step S193; Yes), the main CPU 110a proceeds to the jackpot game termination process in step S194. If the special symbol special power processing data is not 5 (step S193; No), the main CPU 110a terminates the current special symbol special power control process.

(Special symbol memory determination process)
FIG. 30 is a flowchart illustrating the special symbol memory determination process performed by the main control board 110.
In step S202, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not a special symbol is being displayed. If the special symbol is being displayed, that is, if the special symbol time counter is not "0" (step S202; Yes), the main CPU 110a ends the current special symbol memory determination process. If the special symbol is not being displayed, that is, if the special symbol time counter is "0" (step S202; No), the main CPU 110a moves the process to step S203, where it determines whether the second reserved number (U2) memory area is "1" or more.

In step S203, if the main CPU 110a determines that the second reserved number (U2) memory area is not equal to or greater than "1" (step S203; No), it proceeds to step S204. If the main CPU 110a determines that the second reserved number (U2) memory area is equal to or greater than "1" (step S203; Yes), it proceeds to step S206. As a result, the second special symbol memory area is processed with priority over the first special symbol memory area.

In step S204, the main CPU 110a subtracts "1" from the value stored in the second reservation number (U2) storage area and stores the result.
In step S205, the main CPU 110a determines whether the first reserved number (U1) storage area is equal to or greater than 1. If the main CPU 110a determines that the first reserved number (U1) storage area is not equal to or greater than 1 (step S205; No), the process proceeds to step S215. If the main CPU 110a determines that the first reserved number (U1) storage area is equal to or greater than 1 (step S205; Yes), the process proceeds to step S206.

In step S206, the main CPU 110a subtracts "1" from the value stored in the first reservation number (U1) storage area and stores the result.
In step S207, the main CPU 110a performs a shift process of the data stored in the special symbol reserved memory area corresponding to the reserved number (U) memory area subtracted in steps S203 to S206. Specifically, the main CPU 110a shifts the data stored in the first memory section to the fourth memory section in the first special symbol memory area or the second special symbol memory area to the previous memory section.

Here, the data stored in the first memory unit is shifted to the judgment memory area (0th memory unit). At this time, the data stored in the first memory unit is written to the judgment memory area (0th memory unit), and the data that has already been written to the judgment memory area (0th memory unit) is erased from the special symbol reserved memory area.

In step S208, the main CPU 110a executes the jackpot determination process based on the data (random number value for jackpot determination, random number value for special pattern determination) written in step S206 to the determination memory area (0th memory section) of the special pattern reserved memory area.

In step S209, the main CPU 110a sets a performance pattern designation command corresponding to the special symbol stop pattern data determined in step S208 in the performance transmission data storage area.
In step S210, the main CPU 110a performs a fluctuation pattern determination process. In the fluctuation pattern determination process, the main CPU 110a references the game RWM area of the main RAM 110c to determine a fluctuation pattern determination table based on the current game state. The main CPU 110a sets a fluctuation pattern designation command corresponding to the determined fluctuation pattern in the performance transmission data storage area.

In step S211, the game state at the start of the fluctuation is confirmed, and a game state designation command corresponding to the current game state is set in the transmission data storage area for presentation.
In step S212, the main CPU 110a starts the variable display of the special symbol on the first special symbol first display 19a or the second special symbol first display 19b. That is, the main CPU 110a sets the special symbol variable display data in the processing area. As a result, when the special symbol variable display data is set in the processing area, display control data is created in step S114, and the created data is output in step S115, thereby starting the variable display on the first special symbol first display 19a or the second special symbol first display 19b.

In step S213, the main CPU 110a starts the variable display of the special symbols, and then sets the variable time (counter value) based on the determined variable pattern in the special symbol time counter. Note that the special symbol time counter is decremented every 4 ms in step S102.
In step S214, the main CPU 110a sets the special symbol special power processing data to "1" and ends this special symbol memory determination process.

(Jackpot determination process)
FIG. 31 is a flowchart illustrating the jackpot determination process performed by the main control board 110.
In step S221, the main CPU 110a determines whether the random number value for determining a jackpot written in the determination memory area (0th memory section) of the special symbol reserved memory area in step S207 is a random number value for a "jackpot."

If the special pattern reserved memory area shifted in step S207 above is the random number value memory area for determining the first special pattern, the main CPU 110a refers to the jackpot determination table for the first special pattern shown in Figure 7(a), and if the special pattern reserved memory area shifted in step S207 above is the second special pattern memory area, the main CPU 110a refers to the jackpot determination table for the second special pattern shown in Figure 7(b) to determine whether the random number value for determining the jackpot is a "jackpot."

If the main CPU 110a determines that a jackpot has been reached (step S221; Yes), it proceeds to step S222; if it determines that a jackpot has not been reached (step S221; No), it proceeds to step S225.

In step S222, the main CPU 110a performs a jackpot special symbol determination process in which it determines the type of special symbol (special symbol stop data) by judging the random number value for the jackpot special symbol written in the judgment memory area (0th memory section) of the special symbol reserve memory area in step S207, and sets the determined special symbol stop data in the special symbol stop data memory area.

The main CPU 110a refers to the jackpot special symbol determination table shown in Figure 8(a) and determines special symbol stop data indicating the type of special symbol to be stopped based on the special symbol random number value written in the determination memory area (0th memory section), and sets the determined special symbol stop data in the special symbol stop data memory area.

The determined special symbol is used to determine whether or not a "jackpot" has occurred in the special symbol stop processing of Figure 34, as described below, and is also used to determine the operation mode of the first large prize slot 13a in the jackpot game processing of Figure 37, and is also used to determine the game status after the jackpot has ended in the jackpot game end processing of Figure 40.

In step S223, the main CPU 110a determines a performance symbol designation command based on the special symbol stop data for the jackpot determined in step S222 above, and sets the determined performance symbol designation command in the performance transmission data storage area.

In step S224, the main CPU 110a determines the game state at the time of winning the jackpot from the information set in the game state memory area, sets the game state information indicating the game state at the time of winning the jackpot in the game state buffer, and ends this jackpot determination process. Specifically, the main CPU 110a sets 00H if the time-saving game flag is not set, and sets 01H if the time-saving game flag is set.

The reason why the game status at the time of winning the jackpot is set in the game status buffer separately from the game status memory area is that the time-saving game flag in the game status memory area is reset during the jackpot game, and therefore when determining a new game status at the end of the jackpot game based on the game status at the time of winning the jackpot after the jackpot game has ended, it is not possible to refer to the game status memory area.
For this reason, by providing a game status buffer for storing game information indicating the game status at the time of winning the jackpot, separate from the game status memory area, it is possible to refer to the game information in the game status buffer after the jackpot ends and set a new game status after the jackpot game ends (such as time-saving game status and number of time-saving games) based on the game status at the time of winning the jackpot.

In step S225, the main CPU 110a determines whether the random number value for determining a jackpot written to the determination memory area (0th memory section) of the special symbol reserved memory area in step S207 above is a random number value for a "small win." Specifically, if the special symbol reserved memory area shifted in step S207 above is the first special symbol determination random number value memory area, the main CPU 110a refers to the jackpot determination table for the first special symbol shown in FIG. 7(a). If the special symbol reserved memory area shifted in step S207 above is the second special symbol memory area, the main CPU 110a refers to the jackpot determination table for the second special symbol shown in FIG. 7(b) to determine whether the random number value for determining a jackpot is a "small win."

If the main CPU 110a determines that a small win has occurred (step S225; Yes), it proceeds to step S226; if it determines that a small win has not occurred (step S225; No), it proceeds to step S228.

In step S226, the main CPU 110a determines the special symbol for the small win by referring to the small win special symbol determination table shown in Figure 7 (b), and sets the determined special symbol stop data for the small win in the special symbol stop data memory area.

The determined special symbol is used to determine whether or not a "small win" has occurred in the special symbol stop processing of Figure 34, as described below, and is also used to determine the operation mode of the second large prize opening 14a in the small win game processing of Figure 38, and is also used to determine the game status after the end of the jackpot in the jackpot game end processing of Figure 40.

In step S227, the main CPU 110a determines a performance symbol designation command based on the special symbol stop data for the small win determined in step S226 above, sets the determined performance symbol designation command in the performance transmission data storage area, and ends the current big win determination process.

In step S228, the main CPU 110a determines the special symbol for a loss by referring to the special symbol determination table in Figure 8 (c), and sets the determined special symbol stop data for a loss in the special symbol stop data memory area.

In step S229, the main CPU 110a determines a performance symbol designation command based on the losing special symbol stop data determined in step S228 above, sets the determined performance symbol designation command in the performance transmission data storage area, and ends the current jackpot determination process.

(Special chart variation pattern determination process)
Figure 32 is a flowchart explaining the special chart variation pattern determination process by the main control board 110.
In step S231, the main CPU 110a checks the current game state (at the start of the fluctuation) from the information set in the game state storage area. If the main CPU 110a checks that the current game state is a time-shortened game state (step S231; Yes), it proceeds to step S232, and if the main CPU 110a checks that the current game state is not a time-shortened game state (step S231; No), it proceeds to step S233.

In step S232, when determining the variation pattern of the special symbol in the previous to last variation display in the time-shortened play state, the main CPU 110a selects the variation pattern determination table for the special symbol for the time-shortened play state shown in Figure 17, and when determining the variation pattern of the special symbol in the last variation display in the time-shortened play state, it selects the variation pattern determination table for the special symbol for the time-shortened play state shown in Figure 18.

In step S233, when determining the special symbol fluctuation pattern in the fluctuation display other than the remaining reserved second special symbol after transition to the non-time-saving game state, the main CPU 110a selects the special symbol fluctuation pattern determination table for the non-time-saving game state in Figure 15, and when determining the special symbol fluctuation pattern in the fluctuation display related to the remaining reserved second special symbol after transition to the non-time-saving game state, the main CPU 110a selects the special symbol fluctuation pattern determination table for the non-time-saving game state in Figure 16.

In step S234, the main CPU 110a determines the special symbol variation pattern (special symbol variation pattern) by comparing the type of starting hole at the time of winning, the result of the jackpot determination based on that winning, the type of special symbol (special symbol stop symbol data), the random number value for reach determination and the random number value for special symbol variation stored in the 0th memory section of the special symbol memory area, the current number of reserved balls, and the selected variation pattern determination table.

In step S235, the main CPU 110a sets the special symbol time counter to the variation time corresponding to the special symbol variation pattern determined in step S234. Note that the special symbol time counter is decremented by 1 every 4 ms in step S102.

In step S236, the main CPU 110a sets a variation pattern designation command corresponding to the variation pattern of the special symbol determined in step S239 above in the performance transmission data storage area. As a result, the variation pattern designation command is sent to the performance control board 130.

(Special pattern variation processing)
FIG. 33 is a flowchart illustrating the special symbol variation processing by the main control board 110.
In step S242, the main CPU 110a determines whether the variable time set in step S213 has ended (passed) or not (is the special symbol time counter equal to 0?). As a result, if it is determined that the variable time has not ended (passed) (step S242; No), the special symbol variable process is terminated, and if it is determined that the variable time has ended (passed) (step S242; Yes), the process proceeds to step S243.

In step S243, the main CPU 110a clears the set variable display data and sets special symbol stop data in a predetermined processing area to cause the special symbol set in steps S222, S226, and S228 to be displayed in a stopped state on the first special symbol first display 19a or the second special symbol first display 19b. This causes the special symbol to be displayed in a stopped state on the first special symbol first display 19a or the second special symbol first display 19b, and the player is notified of the jackpot determination result.

In step S244, the main CPU 110a determines whether a flag is set ON in the time-saving flag storage area. If a flag is set ON in the time-saving flag storage area, the current game state is a time-saving game state. If the main CPU 110a determines that the time-saving game flag is set ON (step S244; Yes), it proceeds to step S245. If the main CPU 110a determines that the time-saving game flag is set OFF (step S244; No), it proceeds to step S250.

In step S245, the main CPU 110a determines whether the stopped variable display is a variable display related to the first special pattern based on a gaming ball entering the first start opening 10. If the main CPU 110a determines that the variable display is related to the first special pattern (step S245; Yes), it proceeds to step S246. If the main CPU 110a determines that the variable display is not related to the first special pattern (the variable display based on a gaming ball entering the second start opening 11a has stopped) (step S245; No), it proceeds to step S247.

In step S246, the main CPU 110a subtracts "1" from the second time-shortening number of times (J2) stored in the second time-shortening number of times game (J2) storage area to update it (J2←J2-1).
In step S247, the main CPU 110a subtracts "1" from the first time-shortened number of times (J1) stored in the first time-shortened number of times (J1) memory area and the second time-shortened number of times (J2) stored in the second time-shortened number of times (J2) memory area to update them (J1←J1-1 & J2←J2-1).

In step S248, the main CPU 110a determines whether either the first time-shortened game count (J1) or the second time-shortened game count (J2) is "0." If the main CPU 110a determines that either the first time-shortened game count (J1) or the second time-shortened game count (J2) is "0" (step S248; Yes), it proceeds to step S249. If the main CPU 110a determines that either the first time-shortened game count (J1) or the second time-shortened game count (J2) is not "0" (step S248; No), it proceeds to step S250.

In step S249, the main CPU 110a turns OFF the time-saving game flag stored in the time-saving flag storage area. If either the first time-saving game count (J1) or the second time-saving game count (J2) is "0," the variable display of the special symbol is performed the maximum number of times possible in the time-saving game state, and the variable display of the special symbol in the time-saving game state ends.

In step S250, the main CPU 110a checks the current state of the game conditions, and sets a game state designation command indicating that game state in the effect transmission data storage area.
In step S251, the main CPU 110a sets a special symbol determination command in the transmission data storage area for effect. The special symbol determination command also includes information on the second time-shortened game count (J2) updated in the above-mentioned step S246, or information on the first time-shortened game count (J1) and the second time-shortened game count (J2) updated in the above-mentioned step S247.

In step S252, the main CPU 110a sets the special symbol time counter to the symbol stop time of this special symbol based on the variation pattern related to the current special symbol. Note that the special symbol time counter is updated by subtracting 1 every 4 ms in step S102 above.

In step S253, the main CPU 110a sets the special symbol special power processing data to "2" and ends this special symbol variation process.

(Special symbol stop processing)
FIG. 34 is a flowchart illustrating the special symbol stopping process by the main control board 110.
In step S261, the main CPU 110a determines whether the symbol stop time set in step S252 has ended (passed) or not (is the special symbol time counter = 0?). As a result, if the main CPU 110a determines that the symbol stop time has ended (passed) (step S261; Yes), it moves the process to step S262, and if it determines that the symbol stop time has not ended (passed) (step S261; No), it ends the current special symbol stop process.

In step S262, the main CPU 110a determines whether the special symbol stop data stored in the special symbol stop data storage area relates to a special jackpot symbol (special symbol stop data = 01-06). If the main CPU 110a determines that it is a special jackpot symbol (step S262; Yes), it proceeds to step S267. If it determines that it is not a special jackpot symbol (step S262; No), it proceeds to step S263.

In step S263, the main CPU 110a determines whether the special symbol stop data stored in the special symbol stop data storage area is related to the small win special symbol (special symbol stop data = 07, 08). If the main CPU 110a determines that it is a small win special symbol (step S263; Yes), it proceeds to step S265, and if it determines that it is not a small win special symbol (step S263; No), it proceeds to step S264.
In step S264, the main CPU 110a sets the special symbol special power processing data to "0" and ends this special symbol stop processing.

In step S265, the main CPU 110a sets the special symbol special power processing data to "4" and prepares to move to the small win game processing shown in FIG.
In step S266, the main CPU 110a performs a small win game preparation process. In this small win game preparation process, the small win game control table shown in Figure 11(a) is referenced, and the special symbol stop data is used to determine the small win game large win opening/closing control table for "TBL. No. 4" as the small win game large win opening/closing control table shown in Figure 11(b).

In step S267, the main CPU 110a sets the special symbol special power processing data to "3" and prepares to move on to the jackpot game processing shown in FIG.
In step S268, the main CPU 110a clears the data stored in the time-shortening game flag storage area, the first time-shortening game count (J1) storage area, and the second time-shortening game count (J2) storage area.

In step S269, the main CPU 110a performs a Type 1 jackpot game preparation process. In this Type 1 jackpot game preparation process, the main CPU 110a references the Type 1 jackpot game control table shown in FIG. 9 and, based on the special symbol stop data, determines one of the Type 1 jackpot game large prize opening/closing control tables "TBL. No. 1," "TBL. No. 2," or "TBL. No. 3" from the Type 1 jackpot game large prize opening/closing control table shown in FIG. 10, and sets this in the game RWM area of the main RAM 110c.

In step S270, the main CPU 110a indicates that the condition device has been activated and sets a condition device command (condition device activation start command) to perform the performance after the condition device is activated in the performance transmission data storage area, and then ends the special pattern stop processing for this time.
The condition device is configured by the main CPU 110a, and specifically, is configured by the big prize opening operation control unit of the main CPU 110a.
The condition device is activated when a specific combination of symbols (jackpot symbols) is displayed or when a game ball that has entered the second big winning hole 14a during a small winning game passes through the specific area 14e.

(Round start flag determination process)
FIG. 35 is a flowchart illustrating the round start flag determination process by the main control board 110.
In step S295, the main CPU 110a determines whether the round start flag is ON. If the main CPU 110a determines that the round start flag is ON (step S295; Yes), it ends the current round start flag determination process, and if it determines that the round start flag is not ON (step S295; No), it proceeds to step S296.

In step S296, the main CPU 110a performs processing to set the round start flag to ON.
Next, in step S297, the main CPU 110a sets a command to start operation of the winning combination device in the transmission data storage area for performance in the main RAM 110c.
In step S298, the main CPU 110a performs a process of setting the combination device operation start flag to ON, and ends the current round start flag determination process.

The "round start flag" is a flag that is set to determine whether or not it is necessary to control the timing for starting a round of play during a jackpot game. In other words, the round start flag sets the gate detection switch 12a being ON as a condition for activating the consecutive role activation device (combined role device) when the conditional device is activated.

The device for continuously operating the reels is partly configured by the main CPU 110a, and more specifically, is configured by the main CPU 110a's large prize opening operation control unit. The device for continuously operating the reels is activated when the gate detection switch is turned ON after the condition device has been activated.

(Round start process)
FIG. 36 is a flowchart illustrating the round start processing by the main control board 110.
First, in step S271, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not the combination device operation start flag is ON.
In step S272, if the combination device operation start flag is ON (step S271; Yes), the main CPU 110a transfers processing to step S272, and if the combination device operation start flag is not ON (step S271; No), it terminates the current opening processing.

In step S272, the main CPU 110a sets the round designation command in the transmission data storage area for performance.
In step S273, the main CPU 110a turns off the combination device operation start flag and ends the current round start processing.

(Jackpot gaming processing)
FIG. 37 is a flowchart illustrating the jackpot game processing by the main control board 110.
First, in step S275, the main CPU 110a determines whether the jackpot game flag is ON. If the main CPU 110a determines that the jackpot game flag is ON (step S275; Yes), it proceeds to step S276. If the main CPU 110a determines that the jackpot game flag is not ON (step S275; No), it ends the current jackpot game process.

In step S276, the main CPU 110a determines whether the opening is in progress. If the main CPU 110a determines that the opening is in progress (step S276; Yes), it proceeds to step S277. If the main CPU 110a determines that the opening is not in progress (step S276; No), it proceeds to step S281. The opening (opening game) is the period from the start of the jackpot game to the start of the first round of game (the first opening of the first jackpot opening 13a).

In step S277, the main CPU 110a determines whether the preset opening time has elapsed. That is, the main CPU 110a determines whether the special game timer counter = 0, and if the special game timer counter = 0, it determines that the opening time has elapsed.

If the main CPU 110a determines that the set opening time has elapsed (step S277; Yes), it proceeds to step S278; if it determines that the set opening time has not elapsed (step S277; No), it terminates the current jackpot game processing.

In step S278, the main CPU 110a determines whether the round start flag is ON. If the main CPU 110a determines that the round start flag is not ON (step S278; No), it ends the current jackpot game processing. If the main CPU 110a determines that the round start flag is ON (step S278; Yes), it proceeds to step S279.

In step S279, the main CPU 110a performs a round game start process. Specifically, the main CPU 110a adds "1" to the value (round number (R)) stored in the round game count storage area and stores the result. Note that, since no round game has been played at the time of step S279, the main CPU 110a stores "1" in the round game count storage area.

In step S280, the main CPU 110a performs the special prize opening opening process. Specifically, the main CPU 110a adds "1" to the value (special prize opening opening number (K)) stored in the special prize opening opening number storage area and stores the result. Then, the main CPU 110a sets the first special prize opening opening opening solenoid energization start data in the game RWM area of the main RAM 110c in order to energize the first special prize opening opening opening solenoid 13d and open the first special prize opening 13a.

Here, the main CPU 110a references the special prize opening opening/closing control table and sets the opening time of the first special prize opening 13a (the operation time of the first special prize opening control device 13) in the special game timer counter based on the round number (R) and special power activation number (K). Note that the special game timer counter is decremented every 4 ms in step S102 above.

For example, when the first round of a jackpot game is opened for the first time, the round count storage area is set to "1" and the special signal activation number storage area is set to "1", so a round designation command indicating the first round of play is set in the performance transmission data storage area.

On the other hand, if "1" is not set in the special signal activation number storage area, the round designation command is not set in the effect transmission data storage area, and the current jackpot game processing is terminated. In other words, when K = 1, this means that a round of play has begun, so the main CPU 110a sends a round designation command only at the start of a round. Furthermore, when the effect control board 130 receives the round designation command, an effect display such as "Round 1" is displayed on the image display device 16.

In step S281, the main CPU 110a determines whether the game is ending. If the main CPU 110a determines that the game is ending (step S281; Yes), it proceeds to step S291. If the main CPU 110a determines that the game is not ending (step S281; No), it proceeds to step S282. The ending (ending game) is the period from when all of the preset rounds of play have ended (when the final opening of the first large prize opening 13a has been completed) to when the jackpot game ends.

In step S282, the main CPU 110a determines whether the first large prize opening 13a is open, i.e., whether the first large prize opening control device 13 is operating. If the main CPU 110a determines that the first large prize opening 13a is open (step S282; Yes), it proceeds to step S283. If the main CPU 110a determines that the first large prize opening 13a is not open (step S282; No), it proceeds to step S293.

In step S293, the main CPU 110a determines whether the preset closing time has elapsed. If the main CPU 110 determines that the closing time has elapsed (step S293; Yes), it proceeds to step S280. If the main CPU 110 determines that the closing time has not elapsed (step S293; No), it terminates the current jackpot game processing.

In step S283, the main CPU 110a determines whether the "opening termination condition" for terminating the opening of the first large prize opening 13a has been met. If the main CPU 110a determines that the "opening termination condition" has been met (step S283; Yes), it proceeds to step 284. If the main CPU 110a determines that the "opening termination condition" has not been met (step S283; No), it terminates the current large prize game processing.

The "opening end condition" is when the counter value of the round winning counter reaches a specified number for round play (e.g., 10) or the maximum opening time has elapsed (special play timer counter = 0).

In step S284, the main CPU 110a performs a special prize opening closure process. This special prize opening closure process sets data to stop power supply to the first special prize opening opening solenoid 16d in the game RWM area of the main RAM 110c in order to close the open first special prize opening 13a, and also references the special prize opening opening control table and sets the closure time for the first special prize opening 13a in the special game timer counter based on the current round number (R) and special power activation number (K). This closes the first special prize opening 13a.

In step S285, the main CPU 110a determines whether one round of play has ended. Specifically, one round of play ends when the special call activation number (K) reaches the number of times set for that round of play or when the counter value of the round winning counter reaches a specified number (e.g., 10), so it determines whether such conditions have been met.

If the main CPU 110a determines that one round of play has ended (step S285; Yes), it proceeds to step S286; if it determines that one round has not ended (step S285; No), it ends the current jackpot play processing.

In step S286, the main CPU 110a performs a reset process. Specifically, the main CPU 110a clears the special call activation number storage area and the counter value of the round winning counter.

In step S287, the main CPU 110a determines whether the jackpot game has ended, i.e., whether the value (round number (R)) stored in the round game count storage area is the number of round games executed in the jackpot game. If the main CPU 110a determines that the jackpot game has ended (step S287; Yes), it proceeds to step S288. If it determines that the jackpot game has not ended (step S287; No), it proceeds to step S294.

In step S294, the main CPU 110a adds "1" to the current round number (R) stored in the round play count storage area, stores the result, and ends the current jackpot play processing.

In step S288, the main CPU 110a turns off the big win game flag.
In step S289, the main CPU 110a turns off the round start flag.

In step S290, the main CPU 110a performs ending processing. Specifically, the main CPU 110a checks the type of jackpot based on the special symbol stop data, and sets an ending designation command associated with the type of jackpot to be sent to the performance control board 130 in the performance transmission data storage area. Next, the main CPU 110a sets the ending time corresponding to the type of jackpot in the special game timer counter.

In step S291, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not the set ending time has elapsed. If the main CPU 110a determines that the ending time has elapsed (step S291; Yes), it proceeds to step S292, and if it determines that the ending time has not elapsed (step S291; No), it ends the current jackpot game process.
In step S292, the main CPU 110a sets the special symbol special power processing data to "5" and ends the current jackpot game processing.

(Small win game processing)
FIG. 38 is a flowchart explaining the small win game processing by the main control board 110.
In step S299, the main CPU 110a determines whether the opening is in progress. If the main CPU 110a determines that the opening is in progress (step S299; Yes), the process proceeds to step S300. If the main CPU 110a determines that the opening is not in progress (step S299; No), the process proceeds to step S303.

In step S300, the main CPU 110a determines whether the preset opening time has elapsed. That is, the main CPU 110a determines whether the special game timer counter is equal to 0, and if the special game timer counter is equal to 0, determines that the opening time has elapsed. If the main CPU 110a determines that the opening time has elapsed (step S300; Yes), it proceeds to step S301. If it determines that the opening time has not elapsed (step S300; No), it terminates the current small win game processing.

In step S301, the main CPU 110a performs the special prize opening process. Specifically, the main CPU 110a first adds "1" to the value (special prize operation number (K)) stored in the special prize operation number storage area and stores the result. The main CPU 110a then sets the power supply start data for the second large prize opening opening solenoid 14d to open the second large prize opening 14a, and references the large prize opening opening control table for small prize games determined in step S266 above, and sets the opening time for the second large prize opening 14a based on the current special prize operation number (K) in the special game timer counter.

In step S302, the main CPU 110a performs specific area opening/closing control processing. Specifically, the main CPU 110a controls the energization of the distribution solenoid 22b based on the specific area opening/closing control table for small win games shown in Figure 11 (c). In this embodiment, the specific area 14e opens for 0.8 seconds 1.0 second after the second large prize opening 14a begins to open.

In step S303, the main CPU 110a determines whether the specific area prize winning flag is ON. If the main CPU 110a determines that the specific area prize winning flag is ON (step S303; Yes), it proceeds to step S314. If the main CPU 110a determines that the specific area prize winning flag is not ON (step S303; No), it proceeds to step S304.

In step S314, the main CPU 110a indicates that the condition device has been activated and sets a condition device command (condition device activation start command) for performing the performance after the condition device is activated in the performance transmission data storage area.
In step S315, the main CPU 110a performs processing for transition to a second type big win game.

In step S304, the main CPU 110a determines whether the game is ending. If the main CPU 110a determines that the game is ending (step S304; Yes), it proceeds to step S311. If the main CPU 110a determines that the game is not ending (step S304; No), it proceeds to step S305. The ending is the period from the opening of the last second large prize slot 14a to the end of the small prize game.

In step S305, the main CPU 110a determines whether the second large prize opening 14a is open. If the main CPU 110a determines that the second large prize opening 14a is open (step S305; Yes), it proceeds to step S306. If the main CPU 110a determines that the second large prize opening 14a is not open (S305; No), it proceeds to step S313.

In step S306, the main CPU 110a determines whether the "opening termination condition" for terminating the opening of the second large prize opening 14a has been met. If the main CPU 110a determines that the "opening termination condition" for terminating the opening of the second large prize opening 14a has been met (step S306; Yes), it proceeds to step S307. If the main CPU 110a determines that the "opening termination condition" for terminating the opening of the second large prize opening 14a has not been met (step S306; No), it terminates the current small prize game processing. The "opening termination condition" may be that the counter value of the round prize counter has reached a specified number (e.g., 10) or that one opening time of the second large prize opening 14a has elapsed (special game timer counter = 0).

In step S307, the main CPU 110a performs a special prize opening closure process. Specifically, the main CPU 110a sets data to stop power supply to the second special prize opening opening solenoid 14d in the game RWM area of the main RAM 110c in order to close the second special prize opening 14a, and references the special prize opening opening/closing control table for small win games determined in step S266 above, and sets the closure time for the second special prize opening 14a in the special game timer counter based on the current special power activation number (K). This closes the second special prize opening 14a.

In step S308, the main CPU 110a determines whether the small win game ending condition is met. If the main CPU 110a determines that the small win game ending condition is met (step S308; Yes), it proceeds to step S309, and if it determines that the small win game ending condition is not met (step S308; No), it ends the current small win game processing.
The conditions for ending the small win game are that the special electric activation number (K) reaches the predetermined number of times the second large winning port 14a is opened, or the counter value of the round winning counter reaches a specified number (for example, 10).

In step S309, the main CPU 110a performs small win game termination processing. Specifically, the main CPU 110a sets "0" to the special power activation number memory area and sets the counter value of the round winning counter to "0." In other words, the special power activation number memory area and the round winning counter are cleared.

In step S310, the main CPU 110a performs ending processing. Specifically, the main CPU 110a sets an ending designation command corresponding to the type of small win in the performance transmission data storage area based on the special symbol stop data, and sets the ending time corresponding to the type of small win in the special game timer counter.

In step S311, the main CPU 110a determines whether the ending time set in step S310 has elapsed. If the main CPU 110a determines that the ending time has elapsed (step S311; Yes), it proceeds to step S312, and if it determines that the ending time has not elapsed (step S311; No), it ends the current small win game process.
Incidentally, the ending time is also determined by whether or not the special game timer counter is 0, similarly to the opening time.
In step S312, the main CPU 110a sets the special chart special power processing data to "0" and ends the current small win game processing.

If the main CPU 110a determines in step S305 that the second large prize opening 14a is not open, it determines in step S313 whether the preset closing time has elapsed. If the main CPU 110 determines that the closing time has elapsed (step S313; Yes), it proceeds to step S301. If it determines that the closing time has not elapsed (step S313; No), it terminates the current small prize game processing.

(Transition process to second type jackpot game)
FIG. 39 is a flowchart explaining the second type jackpot game transition processing by the main control board 110.
In step S316, the main CPU 110a determines whether the ending is in progress. If the main CPU 110a determines that the ending is in progress (step S316; Yes), it proceeds to step S321, and if the main CPU 110a determines that the ending is not in progress (step S316; No), it proceeds to step S317.

In step S317, the main CPU 110a determines whether the second large prize opening 14a is open. If the main CPU 110a determines that the second large prize opening 14a is open (step S317; Yes), it proceeds to step S318. If the main CPU 110a determines that the second large prize opening 14a is not open (step S317; No), it proceeds to step S319.

In step S318, the main CPU 110a sets data for stopping the power supply to the second large prize opening opening solenoid 14d in the game RWM area of the main RAM 110c in order to close the second large prize opening 14a.
In step S319, the main CPU 110a performs a small win game end process. Specifically, the main CPU 110a sets "0" in the special power activation number storage area and sets "0" in the counter value (C) of the round winning counter. That is, the special power activation number storage area and the round winning counter are cleared.

In step S320, the main CPU 110a performs ending processing. Specifically, the main CPU 110a sets an ending designation command corresponding to the type of small win in the performance transmission data storage area based on the special symbol stop data, and sets the ending time corresponding to the type of small win in the special game timer counter.

In step S321, the main CPU 110a determines whether the ending time has elapsed. If the main CPU 110a determines that the ending time has elapsed (step S321; Yes), it proceeds to step S322. If the main CPU 110a determines that the ending time has not elapsed (step S321; No), it terminates the current second-type jackpot game transition process.

In step S322, the main CPU 110a sets the special picture special power processing data to "3".
In step S323, the main CPU 110a performs a second type jackpot game preparation process. In the second type jackpot game preparation process, the main CPU 110a refers to the second type jackpot game control table shown in Fig. 12, and determines the second type jackpot game large prize opening/closing control table of "TBL. No. 4" as the second type jackpot game large prize opening/closing control table shown in Fig. 13 based on the special symbol stop data, and sets it in the game RWM area of the main RAM 110c, and the main CPU 110a adds "1" to the value (round number (R)) stored in the round game count storage area and stores it.

The second type jackpot game is triggered when the game ball that entered the second large prize opening 14a during the small jackpot game passes through the specific area 14e (the condition for the game to occur is that it must pass through the small jackpot game). Therefore, the small jackpot game is considered to be the first round of the second type jackpot game.
In this way, by setting "1" in the round game number storage area before the second type big win game is started, the small win game is treated as the same as the first round game.
In step S324, the main CPU 110a turns off the specific area winning flag and ends the current second type big win game transition process.

(Jackpot game end processing)
FIG. 40 is a flowchart illustrating the jackpot game ending process by the main control board 110.
In step S325, the main CPU 110a loads the special symbol stop data set in the special symbol stop data storage area and the game information in the game status buffer.

In step S326, the main CPU 110a performs a time-shortened play flag setting process. Specifically, the main CPU 110a references the game status setting table shown in FIG. 14, and if the special symbol stop data sets the time-shortened play flag, it sets the time-shortened play flag in the time-shortened play flag storage area; if the special symbol stop data does not set the time-shortened play flag, it does not set the time-shortened play flag in the time-shortened play flag storage area or clears the time-shortened play flag storage area.

In step S327, the main CPU 110a performs a process of determining the number of time-saving games. Specifically, the main CPU 110a refers to the game state setting table shown in Fig. 14 and sets a predetermined number of times in the first time-saving game number (J1) memory area and the second time-saving game number (J2) memory area based on the special symbol stop data.
Here, in the case of any of the special chart stop data 01 to 08, "5" is set in the first time-shortened game number (J1) memory area as the first time-shortened game number (J1), and "99" is set in the second time-shortened game number (J2) memory area as the second time-shortened game number (J2).

In step S328, the main CPU 110a checks the game status and sets a game status designation command in the transmission data storage area for presentation.
In step S329, the main CPU 110a prepares to move to the special symbol memory determination process shown in FIG. 30, and ends the current big win game end process.

(General map and general power control processing)
FIG. 41 is a flowchart illustrating the normal power control process by the main control board 110.
First, in step S331, the main CPU 110a loads the value of the normal map/normal transmission processing data, and in step S332, calculates a branch address from the loaded normal map/normal transmission processing data.

In step S333, if the normal symbol normal power processing data = 0 (step S333; Yes), the main CPU 110a performs normal symbol variation processing in step S334 and ends the current normal symbol normal power control processing. If the normal symbol normal power processing data is not = 0 (step S333; No), it determines that the normal symbol normal power processing data = 1, performs auxiliary game processing in step S335, and ends the current normal symbol normal power control processing.

(Normal pattern change processing)
FIG. 42 is a flowchart explaining the normal pattern variation processing by the main control board 110.
First, in step S341, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not a normal symbol is being displayed. If a normal symbol is being displayed (the normal symbol time counter is not "0") (step S341; Yes), the process proceeds to step S358. If a normal symbol is not being displayed (step S341; No), the process proceeds to step S342.

In step S342, the main CPU 110a determines whether the value of the normal symbol reserved number (G) memory area storing the normal symbol reserved number is equal to or greater than 1. If it is determined that the value of the normal symbol reserved number (G) memory area is equal to or greater than 1 (S342; Yes), the process proceeds to step S343, and if it is determined that the value of the normal symbol reserved number (G) memory area is not equal to or greater than 1 (S342; No), the normal symbol variation process is terminated.
In step S343, the main CPU 110a subtracts "1" from the value stored in the normal symbol reserved number (G) memory area and updates it (G←G+1).

In step S344, the main CPU 110a shifts the data stored in the normal symbol reserve memory area corresponding to the normal symbol reserve number (G) memory area subtracted in step S343. Specifically, each piece of data stored in the first to fourth memory sections in the normal symbol memory area is shifted to the previous memory section. Here, the data stored in the first memory section is shifted to the judgment memory area (0th memory section). At this time, the data stored in the first memory section is written to the judgment memory area (0th memory section), and data already written to the judgment memory area (0th memory section) is erased from the normal symbol reserve memory area. This erases the random number values for winning judgment, winning symbol judgment, and normal symbol variation pattern judgment used in the previous game.

In step S345, the main CPU 110a performs a win determination process. Specifically, the current time-saving game state and the win determination random number value stored in the 0th memory section of the normal symbol reserve memory area are compared with the normal symbol win determination table shown in Figure 19(a) to determine whether or not a win has occurred.

In step S346, the main CPU 110a performs a normal symbol determination process. Specifically, it checks whether the game is currently in a time-saving game mode, the result of the win determination in step S345, and the normal symbol stopping random number value stored in the 0th memory section of the normal symbol reserve memory area against the normal symbol stopping symbol determination table shown in Figure 19 (b) to determine the type of normal symbol (normal symbol stopping symbol data) and set it in the normal symbol stopping symbol memory area.

In step S347, the main CPU 110a sets a normal symbol designation command corresponding to the normal symbol stop symbol data determined in step S346 above in the performance transmission data storage area. As a result, the normal symbol designation command is sent to the performance control board 130.

In step S348, the main CPU 110a performs a normal symbol fluctuation pattern determination process. Specifically, the normal symbol fluctuation time (fluctuation pattern) is determined by checking whether the current game state is a time-saving game state, the result of the win determination in step S345 above, and the normal symbol fluctuation pattern random number value stored in the 0th memory section of the normal symbol reserve memory area against the normal symbol fluctuation pattern determination table shown in Figure 19 (c).

In step S349, the main CPU 110a sets a normal symbol fluctuation pattern designation command corresponding to the normal symbol fluctuation time (fluctuation pattern) determined in step S348 above in the performance transmission data storage area. As a result, the normal symbol fluctuation pattern designation command is sent to the performance control board 130.

In step S350, the main CPU 110a sets the normal symbol fluctuation time determined in step S349 above in the normal symbol time counter. Note that the normal symbol time counter is decremented by 1 every 4 ms in step S102 above.

In step S351, the main CPU 110a sets normal pattern variable display data in a predetermined processing area of the main RAM 110c to cause the normal pattern first display 19c to display a variable normal pattern (LED flashing). As a result, when the normal pattern variable display data has been set in the predetermined processing area, display control data is created in step S110 above, and the created data is output in step S111 above, thereby starting the variable display on the normal pattern first display 19c.

In step S352, the main CPU 110a sets a normal symbol storage command corresponding to the number of reserved normal symbols (G) in the performance transmission data storage area. This causes the normal symbol storage command to be sent to the performance control board 130.

In step S353, the main CPU 110a sets the above-mentioned normal symbol reserve display data in a predetermined processing area in the main RAM 110c, and ends this normal symbol variation process. As a result, if the normal symbol reserve display data has been set in the predetermined processing area, display control data is created in step S114 above, and the created data is output in step S115 above, causing the number of normal symbols reserved to be displayed on the first normal symbol reserve display 19f.

In step S354, the main CPU 110a determines whether the normal pattern change time has elapsed. Specifically, it determines whether the normal pattern time counter set in step S350 above has reached "0." If it determines that the normal pattern change time has elapsed (S354; Yes), it proceeds to step S355. If it determines that the normal pattern change time has not elapsed (S354; No), it terminates this normal pattern change processing.

In step S355, the main CPU 110a sets normal symbol stop display data in a predetermined processing area to cause the normal symbol determined in step S346 above to be stopped and displayed on the first normal symbol display unit 19c. When the normal symbol stop display data is set in the predetermined processing area, display control data is created in step S110 above, and the created data is output in step S111 above, causing the normal symbol to be stopped and displayed on the first normal symbol display unit 19c, and the winning lottery result is notified to the player.

In step S356, the main CPU 110a sets a normal symbol determination command, which indicates the stop display of the normal symbol, in the effect transmission data storage area. As a result, the normal symbol determination command is transmitted to the effect control board 130.
In step S357, the main CPU 110a determines whether the normal symbol stop symbol data is a winning stop symbol. If it is a winning stop symbol (S357; Yes), the process proceeds to step S358. If it is not a winning stop symbol (S357; No), the normal symbol change process ends.

In step S358, the main CPU 110a sets the normal game processing data to "1" and prepares to shift processing to the auxiliary game processing shown in FIG.
In step S359, the main CPU 110a performs auxiliary game start processing. In the auxiliary game start processing, the main CPU 110a first sets an opening mode determination table for the second start opening 11a in the main RAM 110c and updates the number of openings (S) stored in the number of openings (S) memory area by adding "1" (S←S+1). Here, since the second start opening 11a has not yet been opened even once, "1" is stored in the number of openings (S) memory area. Then, energization data is set to energize the second start opening opening solenoid 11d in order to open the opening/closing member 11b of the second start opening 11a.

This converts the opening/closing member 11b from a closed state to an open state, opening the second start opening 11a. Furthermore, by referencing the second start opening mode determination table, the opening time of the second start opening 11a is set in the auxiliary game timer counter based on the current number of openings (S), and the current normal symbol variation process is terminated. Furthermore, the auxiliary game timer counter is decremented by 1 every 4 ms in step S102 above.

(Auxiliary Game Processing)
FIG. 43 is a flowchart illustrating auxiliary game processing by the main control board 110.
In step S361, the main CPU 110a determines whether the second start port 11a is open. Specifically, it determines whether power supply data for energizing the second start port opening/closing solenoid 11d is set. If it is determined that the second start port 11a is open (step S361; Yes), it proceeds to step S362. If it is determined that the second start port 11a is not open (step S361; No), it proceeds to step S367.

In step S362, the main CPU 110a determines whether the opening termination condition for the second start port 11a has been met. Specifically, this occurs when the value of the second start port ball entry counter (L) reaches the specified number (10 balls) or the opening time for the current opening count (S) has elapsed (the auxiliary game timer counter is "0"). If it is determined that the opening termination condition has been met (step S362; Yes), the process proceeds to step S363. If it is determined that the opening termination condition has not been met (step S362; No), the current auxiliary game process is terminated.

In step S363, the main CPU 110a performs a second start port closing process. Specifically, it sets data to stop the power supply to the second start port opening/closing solenoid to convert the opening/closing member 11b of the second start port 11a to a closed state. This converts the opening/closing member 11b from an open state to a closed state, and closes the second start port 11a. It also references the second start port opening mode determination table set in step S359 above and sets the closing time of the second start port 11a in the auxiliary game timer counter based on the current number of openings (S).

In step S364, the main CPU 110a determines whether the auxiliary game termination condition has been met. The auxiliary game termination condition is when the normal power operation number (D) reaches a preset number of times the second start port 11a has been opened, or when the value of the second start port ball entry counter (L) reaches a specified number (10). If the main CPU 110a determines that the auxiliary game termination condition has been met (step S364; Yes), it proceeds to step S365. If the main CPU 110a determines that the auxiliary game termination condition has not been met (step S364; No), it terminates the current auxiliary game processing.

In step S365, the main CPU 110a performs auxiliary game termination processing. Specifically, it sets "0" to the second start opening count (S) memory area and the second start opening ball entry counter (L) memory area, clearing the values in each memory area.

In step S366, the main CPU 110a sets the normal game processing data to "0" and ends this auxiliary game processing.
In step S367, the main CPU 110a determines whether the closing time of the second start opening 11a has elapsed. Specifically, it determines whether the auxiliary game timer counter has reached "0." If it is determined that the closing time of the second start opening 11a has elapsed (step S367; Yes), the process proceeds to step S368. If it is determined that the closing time of the second start opening 11a has not elapsed (step S367; No), the auxiliary game process is terminated.

In step S368, the main CPU 110a performs a second start port opening process. Specifically, it sets second start port opening/closing solenoid energization start data, which energizes the second start port opening/closing solenoid 11d to open the opening/closing member 11b of the second start port 11a. This converts the opening/closing member 11b from a closed state to an open state, opening the second start port 11a. It also references the second start port opening mode determination table set in step S359 above and sets the opening time of the second start port 11a in the auxiliary game timer counter based on the current number of openings (S).

(Performance display data setting process)
FIG. 44 is a flowchart illustrating the performance display data setting process (information program) by the main control board 110.
First, in step S470, the main CPU 110a determines whether a display switching time counter, which is used to determine whether or not to switch the performance information displayed on the performance indicator 111, is at the display switching value (0). If the main CPU 110a determines that the display switching time counter is at the display switching value (step S470; Yes), it proceeds to step S471, assuming that the performance information (normal base value) displayed on the performance indicator 111 will be switched. If the main CPU 110a determines that the display switching value is not at the display switching value (step S470; No), it proceeds to step S475, assuming that the performance information (normal base value) displayed on the performance indicator 111 will not be switched.

In step S471, the main CPU 110a determines whether a lighting confirmation flag for determining whether lighting confirmation of the performance indicator 111 has been completed has been saved in the information RWM area. If the main CPU 110a determines that the lighting confirmation flag has been saved (step S471; Yes), it transfers processing to step S473, assuming that the normal base value will be displayed on the performance indicator 111. If the main CPU 110a determines that the lighting confirmation flag has not been saved (step S471; No), it transfers processing to step S472, assuming that lighting confirmation of the performance indicator 111 will be performed.

In step S472, the main CPU 110a determines display data for lighting confirmation to light up all segments (including digital points) of the four 7-segment devices that make up the performance indicator 111, and proceeds to step S475.

In step S473, the main CPU 110a obtains the normal base value corresponding to the data selection counter value from the base memory area. Specifically, if the data selection counter value is "0", the normal base value saved in the first area of the base memory area is obtained; if the data selection counter value is "1", the normal base value saved in the second area of the base memory area is obtained; if the data selection counter value is "2", the normal base value saved in the third area of the base memory area is obtained; and if the data selection counter value is "3", the normal base value saved in the fourth area of the base memory area is obtained.

In step S474, the main CPU 110a refers to a display data determination table (not shown) to determine the display data for the normal base value to be displayed on the performance indicator 111 based on the interval counter value, the number of normal outs indicated by the normal out count counter, and the acquired normal base value, and then proceeds to step S475.

In step S475, the main CPU 110a sets the determined display data in the output data area of the information RWM area as display information for the performance indicator 111. As a result, the display data set in the output data area of the information RWM area is referenced in the output control process (game control program) of step S114, and the normal base value corresponding to the display data is displayed on the performance indicator 111.

In step S476, the main CPU 110a adds "1" to the display switching time counter.
In step S477, the main CPU 110a determines whether the display switching time counter is greater than an upper limit (e.g., 5 seconds). If the main CPU 110a determines that the display switching time counter is greater than the upper limit (step S477; Yes), it determines that the time for switching the performance information displayed on the performance indicator 111 has elapsed, and proceeds to step S478. If the main CPU 110a determines that the display switching time counter is not greater than the upper limit (step S477; No), it determines that the time for switching the performance information displayed on the performance indicator 111 has not elapsed, and proceeds to step S484.

In step S478, the main CPU 110a clears (initializes) the display switching time counter to 0.
In step S479, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not a lighting confirmation flag has been set in the information RWM area. If the main CPU 110a determines that the lighting confirmation flag has been saved (step S479; Yes), it proceeds to step S481, and if it determines that the lighting confirmation flag has not been saved (step S479; No), it proceeds to step S480.

In step S480, the main CPU 110a sets a lighting confirmation flag in the information RWM area, and moves the process to step S482.
In step S481, the main CPU 110a adds "1" to the data selection counter.

In step S482, the main CPU 110a determines whether the data selection counter is greater than the upper limit (e.g., 3). If the main CPU 110a determines that the data selection counter is greater than the upper limit (step S482; Yes), it proceeds to step S483. If the main CPU 110a determines that the data selection counter is not greater than the upper limit (step S482; No), it terminates the current performance display data setting process.

In step S483, the main CPU 110a clears (initializes) the data selection counter to 0.
In step S484, the main CPU 110a restores the register.
In step S485, the main CPU 110a restores the game stack pointer that was saved in the information RWM area, and ends the current performance display data setting process.

In this way, after the gaming machine 1 is powered on and before the performance information (normal base value) is displayed, all four 7-segment segments of the performance indicator 111 light up, making it possible to check whether the performance indicator 111 is malfunctioning and which segments are malfunctioning.

In addition, every time the display switching time (5 seconds) elapses, the performance information (normal base values) for the four play sections consisting of the current play section and the three previous play sections is displayed in sequence, allowing you to compare the performance information (normal base values) for the four most recent play sections, making it possible to confirm the actual performance of the gaming machine and identify any possible fraudulent activity.

(Abnormality determination process)
FIG. 45 is a flowchart illustrating the abnormality determination process performed by the main control board 110.
First, in step S401, the main CPU 110a saves the game stack pointer to the information RWM area.
In step S402, the main CPU 110a sets an information stack pointer.
In step S403, the main CPU 110a saves the registers in the information RWM area.

In step S404, the main CPU 110a performs an illegal winning error determination process. Specifically, if a game ball enters the second start port 11a when an auxiliary game is not being played, or if a game ball enters the large winning port 13a or 14a when a special game (jackpot game, small jackpot game) is not being played, an illegal winning error is deemed to have occurred, and an illegal winning error designation command is set in the transmission buffer of the main RAM 110c. This causes the illegal winning error designation command to be sent to the performance control board 130, and processing is performed to issue an illegal winning error notification (displaying an illegal winning error image on the image display device 16, outputting an illegal winning error sound, and lighting up the illegal winning error lamp).

In step S405, the main CPU 110a performs abnormal winning error determination processing. Specifically, if the number of game balls entering the various winning ports (first start port 10, second start port 11a, first large winning port 13a, second large winning port 14a, general winning port 21) does not match the number of game balls discharged from the winning ball flow path through which the winning balls flow, it determines that an abnormal winning error has occurred and sets an abnormal winning error designation command in the transmission buffer of the main RAM 110c. This causes the abnormal winning error designation command to be sent to the performance control board 130, and processing is performed to issue an abnormal winning error notification (displaying an abnormal winning error image on the image display device, outputting an abnormal winning error sound, and lighting up the abnormal winning error lamp).

In step S406, the main CPU 110a performs magnetic error determination processing. Specifically, if the magnetic detection sensor 58a detects abnormal magnetism for a predetermined period of time, it determines that a magnetic error has occurred and sets a magnetic error designation command in the transmission buffer of the main RAM 110c. This causes the magnetic error designation command to be sent to the performance control board 130, and processing is performed to issue a magnetic error notification (displaying a magnetic error image on the image display device 16, outputting a magnetic error sound, and lighting up the magnetic error lamp).

In step S407, the main CPU 110a performs radio wave error determination processing. Specifically, if the radio wave detection sensor 58b detects abnormal radio waves for a predetermined period of time, it determines that a radio wave error has occurred and sets a radio wave error designation command in the transmission buffer of the main RAM 110c. This causes the radio wave error designation command to be sent to the performance control board 130, and processing is performed to issue a radio wave error notification (displaying a radio wave error image on the image display device 16, outputting a radio wave error sound, and lighting up the radio wave error lamp).

In step S408, the main CPU 110a performs vibration error determination processing. Specifically, if the vibration detection switch 58f detects that strong vibrations are being applied to the gaming machine 1 for a predetermined period of time, it determines that a vibration error has occurred and sends a vibration error designation command to the transmission buffer in the main RAM 110c, and performs processing to issue a vibration error notification (displaying a vibration error image on the image display device 16, outputting a vibration error sound, and lighting up the vibration error lamp).

In step S409, the main CPU 110a performs a complete function activation determination process.
"Complete function activation" is a feature that notifies the user that functions related to the progress of the game will be stopped when predetermined complete function activation conditions are met during play, and makes it possible to stop functions related to the progress of the game.
"The complete function activation condition has been met" means that the counter value of the reference value counter mentioned above has reached a predetermined upper limit of the number of balls that can be paid out in one day in the gaming machine.
"Functions related to the progress of the game" refers to the execution of various processes (input control processing, special chart special electric control processing, etc.) in response to the entry of the game ball into the starting hole or the big prize hole and the passage of the game ball through the gate.
"Stopping functions related to the progress of the game" means closing the second starting opening 11a, the first large winning opening 13a and the second large winning opening 14a to make it impossible for game balls to win, invalidating any winnings that a game ball may have entered the first starting opening 10a or the general winning opening 21, and invalidating any passing of a game ball through the gate 12.
A specific description of the complete function activation will be given later in the complete function activation determination process of FIG.

In step S410, the main CPU 110a performs door open error determination processing. Specifically, when the open detection switch 31a changes from an OFF state to an ON state, it is determined that a door open error has occurred, and a door open error start command is set in the transmission buffer of the main RAM 110c. When the open detection switch 31a changes from an ON state to an OFF state, it is determined that the door open error has been canceled, and a door open error end command is set in the transmission buffer of the main RAM 110c. As a result, the door open error start command and door open error end command are sent to the performance control board 130, and processing is performed to execute a door open error notification (displaying a door open error image on the image display device 16, outputting a door open error sound, and lighting up the door open error lamp).

In step S411, the main CPU 110a performs a plate full error determination process. Specifically, when the tray full detection switch 32a changes from an OFF state to an ON state, it is determined that a plate full error has occurred and a plate full error start command is set in the transmission buffer of the main RAM 110c. When the tray full detection switch 32a changes from an ON state to an OFF state, it is determined that the plate full error has been canceled and a plate full error end command is set in the transmission buffer of the main RAM 110c. This performs processing to issue a plate full error notification (displaying a plate full error image on the image display device 16 and outputting a plate full error sound).

In step S412, the main CPU 110a performs a payout status error determination process. Specifically, if the payout ball detection switch 100a detects that more balls have been counted than the planned payout number, if a ball jam occurs in the payout device 100, or if the ball presence detection switch 101a changes from OFF to ON, a payout status error is detected and a payout status error designation command is set in the transmission buffer of the main RAM 110c. This performs processing to issue a payout status error notification (displaying a payout status error image on the image display device 16, outputting a payout status error sound, and lighting up the payout status error lamp).

In step S413, the main CPU 110a performs operation error determination processing and ends this abnormality determination processing. Specifically, if the RWM clear switch 58c or setting key switch 58d is operated while game progress control is being performed (after the initial setting processing has ended), an operation error is assumed to have occurred and an operation error designation command is set in the transmission buffer of the main RAM 110c. This causes the operation error designation command to be sent to the performance control board 130, and processing is performed to execute an operation error notification (displaying an operation error image on the image display device 16, outputting an operation error sound, and lighting up the operation error lamp).

In this way, while game progress control is being carried out (after the initial setup process is completed), it is determined whether various errors (abnormalities) have occurred, and if an error does occur, processing is performed to issue an error notification, thereby ensuring the security of the gaming machine 1.

Furthermore, by executing the abnormality detection process in the information program, it is possible to further separate the functions of the game program (a program related to controlling the progress of the game) and the information program (a program not related to controlling the progress of the game), which simplifies program design and contributes to the creation of more interesting game programs.

(Magnetic error determination process)
FIG. 46 is a flowchart illustrating the magnetic error determination process performed by the main control board 110.
First, in step S460, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not a detection signal has been input from the magnetic detection sensor 58a. If the main CPU 110a determines that a detection signal has been input from the magnetic detection sensor 58a (step S460; Yes), the process proceeds to step S461. If the main CPU 110a determines that a detection signal has not been input (step S460; No), the current magnetic error determination process ends.

In step S461, the main CPU 110a adds "1" to the magnetic detection counter (M), which measures the time (number of times) that a magnetic field exceeding a predetermined magnetic force has been continuously detected, and updates the counter value (M←M+1).

In step S462, the main CPU 110a determines whether the value of the magnetic detection counter (M) is greater than the specified value (50). If it determines that the value of the magnetic detection counter (M) is greater than the specified value (50) (step S462; Yes), it proceeds to step S463. If it determines that the magnetic detection counter (M) is less than or equal to the specified value (50) (step S462; No), it terminates the current magnetic error determination process. Note that since the magnetic error determination process is executed within the timer interrupt process, which is executed every 4 ms, if the counter value of the magnetic detection counter (M) reaches the specified value, this means that a magnetic field exceeding the specified magnetic force has been detected continuously for 0.2 seconds.

In step S463, the main CPU 110a sets a magnetic anomaly error designation command in the performance transmission data storage area, indicating that a magnetic anomaly has occurred, in which magnetism exceeding a predetermined magnetic force has been continuously detected. As a result, the sub-CPU 130a of the performance control board 130, which has received the magnetic anomaly error designation command, issues a magnetic anomaly notification to notify the user that a magnetic anomaly has occurred.

In step S464, the main CPU 110a sets external information data (output data) for outputting a security signal indicating that a security abnormality has occurred. This causes the security signal to be output from the seventh terminal of the game information output terminal board 112, allowing the external device (hall computer) to grasp (identify) that a security abnormality has occurred.

In step S465, the main CPU 110a clears the value of the magnetic detection counter (M), which measures the time during which a magnetic field exceeding a predetermined magnetic force is continuously detected, to 0, and terminates the current magnetic error determination process. By clearing the value of the magnetic detection counter (M) to 0 in this way, even if the magnetic error determination process is next executed, a magnetic anomaly error designation command or security signal will not be sent immediately.

(Radio wave error determination process)
FIG. 47 is a flowchart illustrating the radio wave error determination process performed by the main control board 110.
First, in step S450, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not a detection signal has been input from the radio wave detection sensor 58b. If the main CPU 110a determines that a detection signal has been input from the radio wave detection sensor 58b (step S450; Yes), the process proceeds to step S451. If the main CPU 110a determines that a detection signal has not been input (step S450; No), the current radio wave error determination process ends.

In step S451, the main CPU 110a adds "1" to the radio wave detection counter (N), which measures the time (number of times) that radio waves of a specified frequency have been continuously detected, and updates the counter value (N←N+1).

In step S452, the main CPU 110a determines whether the value of the radio wave detection counter (N) is greater than the specified value (50). If the main CPU 110a determines that the value of the radio wave detection counter (N) is greater than the specified value (50) (step S452; Yes), it proceeds to step S453. If the main CPU 110a determines that the value of the radio wave detection counter (N) is less than or equal to the specified value (50) (step S452; No), it terminates the current radio wave error determination process. Note that since the radio wave error determination process is executed within the timer interrupt process, which is executed every 4 ms, if the radio wave detection counter (N) has reached the specified value, it means that radio waves of the specified frequency have been detected continuously for 0.2 seconds.

In step S453, the main CPU 110a sets a radio wave abnormality error designation command in the performance transmission data storage area, assuming that a radio wave abnormality has occurred, in which radio waves of a specified frequency are continuously detected. As a result, the sub-CPU 130a of the performance control board 130, which has received the radio wave abnormality error designation command, issues a radio wave abnormality alert to notify that a radio wave abnormality has occurred.

In step S454, the main CPU 110a sets external information data (output data) for outputting a security signal indicating that a security abnormality has occurred. This causes the security signal to be output from the seventh terminal of the game information output terminal board 112, allowing the external device (hall computer) to grasp (identify) that a security abnormality has occurred.

In step S455, the main CPU 110a clears the value of the radio wave detection counter (N), which measures the time during which radio waves of a specified frequency have been continuously detected, to 0, and terminates this radio wave error determination process. By clearing the value of the radio wave detection counter (N) to 0 in this way, even if the radio wave error determination process is next executed, a radio wave abnormality error designation command or security signal will not be immediately transmitted.

(Complete function operation determination process)
FIG. 48 is a flowchart illustrating the complete function activation determination process performed by the main control board 110.
The complete function activation determination process is a process for determining whether or not to activate the complete function based on whether or not the counter value of the reference value counter calculated and updated in step S106 has reached a predetermined reference value (first reference value (C1) or second reference value (C2)).

The "reference value counter" calculates the difference in number of balls between the maximum and minimum values of balls dispensed by the gaming machine from the time the power is turned on until the present time. Specifically, it calculates the maximum gaming value acquired by the player, which indicates the maximum difference between the minimum value of balls dispensed at the time of update and the maximum value of balls dispensed subsequently updated (i.e., the range of increase from the lowest point, which is the minimum value, to the highest point, which is the maximum value), and calculates the upper limit of balls that can be dispensed by the gaming machine in one day.

49(1), at the timing of T1, after the power is turned on, for example, the number of game balls released since the game started is 12,000, while the number of game balls paid out as a result of winning into the various winning ports (first starting port 10, second starting port 11a, general winning port 21, etc.) is 2,000, so the difference in balls is -10,000, and the minimum value of the balls dispensed is updated to -10,000. This updated minimum value of the balls dispensed becomes the lowest point, which is the reference point for the range of increase.
Therefore, at the timing T1, the rise from the lowest point to the highest point is "0", and therefore the counter value of the reference counter is "0".

As shown in Figure 49 (2), at time T2, a streak of consecutive jackpots has occurred since time T1. For example, while 5,000 game balls have been launched since time T1, 25,000 game balls have been paid out as a result of winning into the various winning slots (first starting slot 10, second starting slot 11a, first large winning slot 13a, second large winning slot 14a, general winning slot 21, etc.), resulting in a difference of +10,000 balls, and the maximum value of balls dispensed, which is the highest point, is updated to +10,000. This maximum value of balls dispensed is the highest point because it was updated after the minimum value of balls dispensed at time T1.
Therefore, at the timing of T2, the increase from the lowest point to the highest point is "20000", and therefore the counter value of the reference value counter is "20000".

As shown in FIG. 49 (3), at time T3, if no jackpot occurs from time T2, for example, 23,000 game balls are launched from time T2, while 3,000 game balls are paid out due to winning into the various winning slots (first starting slot 10, second starting slot 11a, general winning slot 21, etc.), and then (after all balls are used up), 10,000 game balls are launched, while 5,000 game balls are paid out due to winning into the various winning slots (first starting slot 10, second starting slot 11a, general winning slot 21, etc.), resulting in a difference of -15,000 balls, and the minimum value of balls to be paid out, which is the lowest point, is updated to -15,000 balls. This updated minimum value of balls to be paid out becomes the lowest point, which is the reference point for the increase range.
Therefore, at the timing of T3, the increase from the lowest point to the highest point is "0", and therefore the counter value of the reference value counter is "0".

50(4), at time T4, a streak of consecutive jackpots has occurred since time T3. For example, while 7,000 game balls have been launched since time T3, 47,000 game balls have been paid out as a result of winning into the various winning slots (first starting slot 10, second starting slot 11a, first large winning slot 13a, second large winning slot 14a, general winning slot 21, etc.), resulting in a difference of +25,000 balls, and the maximum number of balls dispensed is updated to +25,000. This maximum number of balls dispensed is the highest point because it was updated after the minimum number of balls dispensed at time T3.
Therefore, at timing T4, the increase from the lowest point to the highest point is "40000", and the counter value of the reference value counter is "40000".

As shown in Figure 50 (5), at time T5, game balls are launched from time T4, and a consecutive win state occurs again without updating the minimum value of balls released. For example, while the game balls launched from time T4 are 21,000, the game balls paid out by winning at the various winning slots (first starting slot 10, second starting slot 11a, first large winning slot 13a, second large winning slot 14a, general winning slot 21, etc.) are 76,000, so the difference in balls is +80,000, and the maximum value of balls released is updated to +80,000. This maximum value of balls released is the highest point because it was updated after the minimum value of balls updated at time T3.
Therefore, at the timing of T5, the increase from the lowest point to the highest point is "95000", and the counter value of the reference value counter is "95000".

As shown in FIG. 48, in the complete function activation determination process, in step S421, the main CPU 110a determines whether the complete function activation flag is ON. If the main CPU 110a determines that the complete function activation flag is ON (step S421; Yes), the complete function activation has already been performed and the current complete function determination process is terminated. If the main CPU 110a determines that the complete function activation flag is OFF (step S421; No), the process proceeds to step S422.

In step S422, the main CPU 110a determines whether the counter value of the reference value counter, calculated and updated from the time the gaming machine 1 was powered on to the present time, is greater than or equal to a predetermined first reference value (C1) (e.g., C1 = 90,000).

If the main CPU 110a determines that the value is not greater than or equal to the first reference value (C1) (step S422; No), it terminates the current complete function determination process; if it determines that the value is greater than or equal to the first reference value (C1) (step S422; Yes), it proceeds to step S423.

In step S423, the main CPU 110a determines whether the counter value of the reference value counter, calculated and updated from when the gaming machine 1 was powered on to the present time, is greater than or equal to a predetermined second reference value (C2) (e.g., C2 = 95,000).

If the main CPU 110a determines that the value is equal to or greater than the second reference value (C2) (step S423; Yes), it determines that the complete function activation condition is met and proceeds to step S425. If the main CPU 110a determines that the value is not equal to or greater than the second reference value (C2) (step S423; No), it proceeds to step S424.

In step S424, the main CPU 110a sets external information data (output data) for outputting a security signal indicating that a security abnormality has occurred. This causes the security signal to be output from the seventh terminal of the game information output terminal board 112, allowing the external device (hall computer) to grasp (identify) that a security abnormality has occurred.

In step S425, the main CPU 110a sets the complete function activation flag to ON to activate the complete function.
In step S426, the main CPU 110a sets a complete function activation command in the performance transmission data storage area. If the complete function activation command is set in the performance transmission data storage area, complete function activation control data is created in step S114, and the created data is output in step S115, whereby processing for executing a complete function activation notification is performed on the performance control board 130.

In step S427, the main CPU 110a performs a game stop process to stop functions related to the progress of the game.
In the game stop processing, the second start opening 11a, the first large prize opening 13a, and the second large prize opening 14a are closed. Specifically, the second start opening opening solenoid power stop data is set to close the opening/closing member 11b of the second start opening 11a, the first large prize opening opening solenoid power stop data is set to close the opening/closing member 13b of the first large prize opening 13a, and the second large prize opening opening solenoid power stop data is set to close the opening/closing member 14b of the second large prize opening 14a.

In the game stop processing, if the right-hit first indicator 19j of the first game information display device 19 is lit, it is forcibly turned off.
In the game stop processing, even if a game ball enters the first start port 10 or the general winning port 21, the winning is invalidated. Specifically, even if the first start port detection switch 10a detects that a game ball has entered the first start port 10, a restrictive (prohibitive) processing is performed that does not perform the first start port detection switch input processing (FIG. 24). Therefore, even if a game ball enters the first start port 10, no jackpot determination is made, the number of reserved special symbols does not increase, and no prize balls are paid out.

In the game stop processing, even if the general winning opening detection switch 14a detects that a game ball has entered the general winning opening 21, a restriction (prohibition) processing is performed in which the general winning opening detection switch input processing is not performed. Therefore, even if a game ball enters the general winning opening 21, no prize balls are paid out.
In the game stop processing, even if the gate detection switch 12a detects the passage of the game ball to the gate 12, a restriction (prohibition) processing is performed in which the gate detection switch input processing (FIG. 26) is not performed. Therefore, even if the game ball passes through the gate 21, a normal winning judgment is not performed, and the number of normal reserved games does not increase.
In addition, in the game stop processing, a launch stop processing may be performed to stop the launch of game balls.

(Signal output from the game information output terminal board)
Figure 51 shows an example of the types of signals transmitted from a game information output terminal board having multiple terminals to an external device (hall computer, ball dispensing machine, etc.).
Specifically, nine types of signals, namely, "starting hole winning signal,""pattern confirmation signal,""big win signal,""small win signal,""time-saving status signal,""unique information signal,""securitysignal,""prize ball expected signal," and "prize ball completion signal," are output via the game information output terminal board 112.

The "start port winning signal" is continuously output from the first terminal of the game information output terminal board 112 each time a game ball wins the first start port 10 or the second start port 11a until a predetermined period of time (e.g., 128 ms) has elapsed.
The "pattern confirmation signal" is continuously output from the second terminal of the game information output terminal board 112 until a predetermined period (e.g., 128 ms) has elapsed each time the varying display of the first special pattern or the second special pattern is stopped.

The "jackpot signal" is output continuously from the third terminal of the game information output terminal board 112 every time a jackpot game occurs, throughout the period in which the jackpot game occurs.
The "small win signal" is output continuously from the fourth terminal of the game information output terminal board 112 every time a small win game occurs, throughout the period in which the small win game occurs.

The "time-shortened state signal" is output from the fifth terminal of the game information output terminal board 112 every time the time-shortened game state occurs, for the duration of the time-shortened game state.
The "unique information signal" is continuously output from the sixth terminal of the game information output terminal board 112 every time the gaming machine 1 is powered on/powered back on until a predetermined time (for example, 3000 ms) has elapsed.

The "security signal" is continuously output from the seventh terminal of the game information output terminal board 112 each time an error (RWM abnormality, magnetic abnormality, radio wave abnormality, illegal winning abnormality, abnormal winning) occurs until the error release condition is met.
In addition, the "security signal" is continuously output from the seventh terminal of the game information output terminal board 112 each time a complete function activation warning notification is executed until the complete function activation condition is met (reaching the second reference value).
The "complete function operation warning notification" is a notification that the execution of the complete function operation is approaching before the complete function operation is actually performed.

In this way, regardless of the type of error (RWM abnormality signal, magnetic abnormality signal, radio wave abnormality signal, illegal winning signal, or abnormal winning signal), a security signal is output from the same terminal on the game information output terminal board.

Furthermore, when the complete function activation warning notification is executed, a security signal is output from the seventh terminal of the game information output terminal board 112, which is used when an error occurs.
It is also possible to distinguish between different types of signals corresponding to various errors and output them from separate terminals on the game information output terminal board. For example, in the case of an RWM abnormality, security signal 1 corresponding to the RWM abnormality is output, and in the case of a magnetic abnormality, security signal 2 corresponding to the magnetic abnormality is output.

Furthermore, when the complete function is activated, a security signal may be output from the seventh terminal of the game information output terminal board 112 until the gaming machine is powered off, or when the complete function is activated, a dedicated signal indicating that the complete function has been activated may be output from another terminal of the game information output terminal board 112 until the gaming machine is powered off.

(Main processing of the production control unit)
FIG. 52 is a flowchart illustrating the main processing by the performance control unit 130m.
When power supply voltage is supplied from the power supply board 160, a system reset occurs in the sub-CPU 130a of the performance control unit 130m, and the sub-CPU 130a performs the following main processing.

First, in step S510, the sub CPU 130a sets an interrupt prohibition to prohibit timer interrupt processing.
Next, in step S520, the sub CPU 130a performs initialization processing. In this processing, the sub CPU 130a reads the main processing program from the sub ROM 130b in response to power-on, and also performs processing to initialize and set flags and the like stored in the sub RAM 130c.

At this time, the sub-CPU 130a controls the image display devices 16, 18, audio output device 9, effect button device 6A (button drive motor 6c, button vibration motor 6d, button light-emitting LED 6e), board drive device 17 (movable effect members 17A-17C, stepping motor), board lighting device 23, frame lighting device 27, etc. Then, after receiving an initialization OK signal in response to the initialization instruction signal from both the image control unit 140 and the lamp control unit 150, processing proceeds to step S530.

In step S530, the sub-CPU 130a sets an interrupt permission to permit a timer interrupt.
In step S540, the sub-CPU 130a performs a random number update process for effects. In this process, the sub-CPU 130a updates various random number values stored in the sub-RAM 130c. Thereafter, the process of step S540 is repeated until a predetermined interrupt process is performed.

(Timer interrupt processing)
FIG. 53 is a flowchart illustrating the timer interrupt processing by the performance control unit 130m.
Although not shown, a reset clock pulse generating circuit provided in the performance control unit 130m generates a clock pulse at a predetermined period (2 ms), loads a timer interrupt processing program, and executes the timer interrupt processing of the performance control unit 130m.

First, in step S601, the sub CPU 130a saves information stored in the registers of the sub CPU 130a in a stack area.
In step S602, the sub-CPU 130a performs an update process for various timer counters used in the performance control unit 130m.

In step S603, the sub-CPU 130a performs command analysis processing. In this processing, the sub-CPU 130a analyzes the command stored in the receive buffer of the sub-RAM 130c. When the performance control unit 130m receives a command sent from the main control board 110, a command receive interrupt processing of the performance control unit 130m (not shown) occurs, and the received command is stored in the receive buffer. Then, in step S603, the received command is analyzed.

In step S604, the sub-CPU 130a checks the detection signal of the effect button detection switch 6b and performs effect input control processing for the effect button 6a.
In step S605, the sub-CPU 130a performs data creation processing of various display control data to be output to the second game information display device 20, which has the special pattern second display devices 20a, 20b, the normal pattern second display device 20c, the special pattern reserved second display devices 20d, 20e, the normal pattern reserved second display device 20f, and the right-hit second display device 20g.

In step S606, the sub-CPU 130a performs a command output process to transmit the various data set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c to the liquid crystal control unit 140 and the lamp control unit 150. The sub-CPU 130a also performs a display output process to output a signal of the display control data created in step S605.
In step S607, the sub CPU 130a restores the information saved in step S601 to the register of the sub CPU 130a.

(Command analysis process)
54 and 55 are flowcharts illustrating the command analysis process performed by the performance control unit 130m.
52, first, in step S610, the sub CPU 130a determines whether or not a command has been received. If the sub CPU 130a determines that a command has not been received (step S610; No), it ends the current command analysis process. If the sub CPU 130a determines that a command has been received (step S610; Yes), it proceeds to step S611.

In step S611, the sub-CPU 130a determines whether the received command is a setting change command. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the command is not a setting change command (step S611; No), it proceeds to step S613. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the command is a setting change command (step S611; Yes), it proceeds to step S612.

In step S612, the sub-CPU 130a performs a setting change notification process. In this setting change notification process, a notification instruction command for initiating a setting change notification is set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c. This causes the notification instruction command to be sent to the image control unit 140 and lamp control unit 150, and processing to execute the setting change notification is performed. When this process ends, the current command analysis process ends.

In step S613, the sub-CPU 130a determines whether the received command is an RWM clear command. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the received command is not an RWM clear command (step S613; No), it proceeds to step S615. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the received command is an RWM clear command (step S613; Yes), it proceeds to step S614.

In step S614, the sub-CPU 130a performs RWM clear notification processing. In this RWM clear notification processing, a notification instruction command for initiating the RWM clear preparation notification is set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c. This causes the notification instruction command to be sent to the image control unit 140 and lamp control unit 150, and processing to execute the RWM clear preparation notification is performed. When this processing is completed, the current command analysis processing is terminated.

In step S615, the sub-CPU 130a determines whether the received command is a power-on/recovery command. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the received command is not a power-on/recovery command (step S615; No), it proceeds to step S617. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the received command is a power-on/recovery command (step S615; Yes), it proceeds to step S616.

In step S616, the sub-CPU 130a performs power-on notification processing. In this power-on notification processing, if the received command is a power-on command, a notification instruction command for executing a power-on notification is set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c. If the received command is a power-restoration command, a notification instruction command for executing a power-restoration notification is set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c. As a result, the notification instruction command is sent to the image control unit 140 and lamp control unit 150, and processing for executing a power-on notification or a power-restoration notification is performed. When this processing is completed, the current command analysis processing is terminated.

In step S617, the sub-CPU 130a determines whether the received command is an error specification command. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the command is not an error specification command (step S617; No), it proceeds to step S619. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the command is an error specification command (step S617; Yes), it proceeds to step S616.

In step S618, the sub-CPU 130a performs error notification processing to notify that an error related to the security of the gaming machine 1 has occurred. In this error notification processing, the type of error specification command is determined, and an error notification instruction command corresponding to the type of error that has occurred is set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c. As a result, the error notification instruction command is sent to the image control unit 140 and lamp control unit 150, and processing to execute the error notification processing is performed. When this processing is completed, the current command analysis processing is terminated.

In step S619, the sub-CPU 130a determines whether the received command is an error reset command. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the received command is not an error reset command (step S619; No), it proceeds to step S621. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the received command is an error reset command (step S619; Yes), it proceeds to step S620.

In step S620, the sub-CPU 130a performs error notification cancellation processing to cancel the error notification that is currently being executed. In this error notification cancellation processing, the type of error cancellation command is determined, the error notification effect corresponding to the type of resolved error is cleared from the error notification effect storage area, and an error notification cancellation command based on the resolved error notification effect is set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c in order to send cancellation information for the resolved error notification effect to the image control unit 140 and lamp control unit 150. When this processing ends, the current command analysis processing ends.

In step S621, the sub-CPU 130a determines whether the received command is a customer waiting state designation command. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the received command is not a customer waiting state designation command (step S621; No), it proceeds to step S623. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the received command is a customer waiting state designation command (step S621; Yes), it proceeds to step S622.

In step S622, the sub-CPU 130a performs customer waiting effect processing. In this customer waiting effect processing, a customer waiting demo image or a power saving image is displayed on the image display device 30 or 60 seconds after receiving the customer waiting state designation command. When this processing is completed, the current command analysis processing is terminated.

In step S623, the sub-CPU 130a determines whether the received command is a game state designation command. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the received command is not a game state designation command (step S623; No), it proceeds to step S625. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the received command is a game state designation command (step S623; Yes), it proceeds to step S624.

In step S624, the sub-CPU 130a performs a presentation mode setting process. This presentation mode setting process updates the game state stored in the sub-RAM 130c to a game state corresponding to the game state designation command, and also performs a presentation mode setting process to set one of multiple presentation modes A to G related to the execution of variable presentations. When this process ends, the current command analysis process ends.

The presentation mode notifies the currently set game state. Specifically, when the game is in a low-probability, non-time-saving game state (normal game state), a normal mode is set to notify the player that the current game state is in a low-probability, non-time-saving game state, and when the game is in a low-probability, time-saving game state, a time-saving mode is set to notify the player that the current game state is in a low-probability, time-saving game state.

When setting a presentation mode corresponding to the current game state, for example, a presentation image that notifies the current game information is displayed on the image display device 16, and/or the display mode of the pending icon image, the variable icon image, the background image, the character image, and the presentation pattern image displayed on the image display device 16 is made different from the display mode in other presentation modes, thereby notifying the current game state (low-probability non-time-saving game state, low-probability time-saving game state, high-probability time-saving game state).

For example, in normal mode, a background image with an image of a mountain, a display pattern image consisting of numbers (identification section) and character images (decorative section) is displayed, while in time-saving mode, a background image with an image of the sea, and a display pattern image consisting of only numbers (identification section) is displayed. Also, in time-saving mode, a right-hit promotion image is displayed to encourage the player to fire the game ball toward the right-hand area 4a2 of the game area 4a, while in normal mode, no right-hit promotion image is displayed.

In step S625, the sub-CPU 130a determines whether the received command is a special symbol storage command. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the received command is not a special symbol storage command (step S625; No), it proceeds to step S628. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the received command is a special symbol storage command (step S625; Yes), it proceeds to step S626.

In step S626, the sub-CPU 130a performs a reserved memory update process. In this reserved memory update process, a process is performed to update the number of reserved special symbols stored in the sub-RAM 130c and set a performance instruction command to the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c to increase or decrease the number of reserved icons displayed on the image display device 16. As a result, the performance instruction command is sent to the image control unit 140 and lamp control unit 150, and processing is performed to increase or decrease the number of reserved icons displayed on the image display device 16. When this process is completed, the current command analysis process is terminated.

In step S627, the sub-CPU 130a determines whether the received command is a start-port winning designation command. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the received command is not a start-port winning designation command (step S627; No), it proceeds to step S629. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the received command is a start-port winning designation command (step S627; Yes), it proceeds to step S628.

In step S628, the sub-CPU 130a performs a pre-reading effect determination process. This pre-reading effect determination process determines whether or not to execute a pre-reading effect that creates anticipation of a jackpot game (indicating the possibility of a jackpot game being executed) by executing a predetermined effect across the variable display (variable effect) of one or more special symbols, and determines the type of pre-reading effect to execute, and then performs processing to set an effect instruction command in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c to execute the pre-reading effect. As a result, the effect instruction command is sent to the image control unit 140 and lamp control unit 150, and processing to execute the pre-reading effect is performed. When this process ends, the current command analysis process ends.

Examples of predictive effects include icon change effects in which the pending icon displayed on the image display device 16 or the icon is displayed in a special display mode different from the normal display mode, button vibration effects in which the effect button 6a vibrates for a predetermined period (e.g., 1 second), and predictive continuous preview effects in which a predetermined effect is executed during one or more changing displays (changing effects).

As shown in FIG. 55, in step S629, the sub-CPU 130a determines whether the received command is a special symbol designation command. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the received command is not a special symbol designation command (step S629; No), it proceeds to step S631. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the received command is a special symbol designation command (step S629; Yes), it proceeds to step S630.

In step S630, the sub-CPU 130a performs a pattern determination process. This pattern determination process determines the effect patterns to be displayed on the image display device 16 as a result of the variable effect, i.e., the arrangement (combination) of effect patterns to be displayed on a predetermined pay line. When this process ends, the current command analysis process ends.

In step S631, the sub-CPU 130a determines whether the received command is a variation pattern specification command. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the received command is not a variation pattern specification command (step S631; No), it proceeds to step S635. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the received command is a variation pattern specification command (step S631; Yes), it proceeds to step S632.

In step S632, the sub-CPU 130a performs a variable presentation pattern determination process. In this variable presentation pattern determination process, a variable presentation pattern, which is the presentation mode of the variable presentation executed by the presentation devices (audio output device 9, board lighting device 23, frame lighting device 27) including the image display device 16, is determined based on the special chart variable presentation pattern specified by the variable presentation pattern designation command and the variable presentation pattern determination table, and a process is performed to set a presentation instruction command for executing the variable presentation in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c. As a result, the presentation instruction command is sent to the image control unit 140 and lamp control unit 150, and processing to execute the variable presentation is performed.

In step S633, the sub-CPU 130a performs a preview effect determination process. In this preview effect determination process, based on the variable effect pattern determined in step S623, it determines whether or not to execute a jackpot preview effect that creates anticipation of a jackpot game being played (suggesting that a jackpot game may be played), determines the type of jackpot preview effect to execute, and performs processing to set a performance instruction command for executing the jackpot preview effect in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c. As a result, the performance instruction command is sent to the image control unit 140 and lamp control unit 150, and processing to execute the jackpot preview effect is performed.

In step S634, the sub-CPU 130a performs a look-ahead effect execution process. In this look-ahead effect execution process, a process is performed to set, in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c, a performance instruction command for starting the look-ahead effect determined in the look-ahead effect determination process in step S628 or for changing the performance mode. As a result, the performance instruction command is sent to the image control unit 140 and lamp control unit 150, and processing for executing the look-ahead effect is performed. When this process is completed, the current command analysis process is also completed.

In step S635, the sub-CPU 130a determines whether the received command is a symbol determination command. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the received command is not a symbol determination command (step S635; No), it proceeds to step S637. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the received command is a symbol determination command (step S635; Yes), it proceeds to step S636.

In step S636, the sub-CPU 130a performs a pattern change stop process. In this pattern change stop process, a process is performed to set a performance instruction command in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c to stop the display of the performance symbols that are in a temporarily stopped state and end the changing performance. As a result, the performance instruction command is sent to the image control unit 140 and lamp control unit 150, and processing to end the changing performance is performed. When this process is completed, the current command analysis process is also completed.

In step S637, the sub-CPU 130a determines whether the received command is a conditional device command. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the received command is not a conditional device command (step S637; No), it proceeds to step S639. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the received command is a conditional device command (step S637; Yes), it proceeds to step S638.

In step S638, the sub-CPU 130a performs processing while waiting for the combination device to activate. In this processing while waiting for the combination device to activate, an activation waiting presentation pattern, which is the presentation mode of the combination device activation waiting presentation executed by the presentation device including the image display device 16, is determined based on the information (information on whether the combination device has won a big prize or a small prize) obtained from the analysis result of the condition device command received in step S637, and a processing is performed to set a presentation instruction command for executing the activation waiting presentation in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c. As a result, the presentation instruction command is sent to the image control unit 140 and lamp control unit 150, and processing is performed to execute the combination device activation waiting presentation. When this processing is completed, the current command analysis processing is completed.

In step S639, the sub-CPU 130a determines whether the received command is a combination device operation start command. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the received command is not a combination device operation start command (step S639; No), it proceeds to step S641. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the received command is a combination device operation start command (step S639; Yes), it proceeds to step S640.

In step S640, the sub-CPU 130a performs a combination device activation effect selection process. In this combination device activation effect selection process, a combination device activation effect pattern, which is the effect mode of the combination device activation effect executed by the effect devices (audio output device 9, board lighting device 23, frame lighting device 27) including the image display device 16, is determined based on the results of analyzing the combination device activation start command received in step S639, and a process is performed to set an effect instruction command for executing the combination device activation effect in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c. As a result, the effect instruction command is sent to the image control unit 140 and lamp control unit 150, and processing is performed to execute the combination device activation effect. When this process ends, the current command analysis process ends.

In step S641, the sub-CPU 130a determines whether the received command is a special game system designation command. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the command is not a special game system designation command (step S641; No), it proceeds to step S643. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the command is a special game system designation command (step S641; Yes), it proceeds to step S642.

"Special game designation commands" include jackpot opening designation commands, jackpot round designation commands, jackpot ending designation commands, small jackpot game designation commands, etc.

In step S642, the sub-CPU 130a performs a special game effect determination process. In this special game effect determination process, in the case of an opening designation command, the sub-CPU 130a determines the opening effect for a big win game or a small win game, and sets the effect instruction command for executing the opening effect in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c.

In the case of a round designation command, a process is performed in which a presentation instruction command for determining the round presentation for the round game and executing the round presentation is set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c.
In the case of an ending designation command, a process is performed in which an ending effect for the jackpot game is determined and an effect instruction command for executing the ending effect is set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c. As a result, the effect instruction command is transmitted to the image control unit 140 and the lamp control unit 150, and processing for executing the opening effect, round effect, or ending effect is performed. When this process is completed, the current command analysis process is completed.

In step S643, the sub-CPU 130a determines whether the received command is a specific area winning designation command. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the received command is not a specific area winning designation command (step S643; No), it proceeds to step S645. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the received command is a specific area winning designation command (step S643; Yes), it proceeds to step S644.

In step S644, the sub-CPU 130a performs specific area winning presentation processing. This specific area winning presentation processing determines a specific area winning presentation pattern, which is the presentation mode of the specific area winning presentation executed by the presentation devices (audio output device 9, board lighting device 23, frame lighting device 27) including the presentation image display device 16, to notify that the gaming ball has passed through the specific area 14f of the second large prize opening device 14 during a small jackpot game, i.e., that a second-type jackpot game has been won. The sub-CPU 130a then performs processing to set a presentation command for executing the specific area winning presentation in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c. This sends the presentation command to the image control unit 140 and lamp control unit 150, and processing to execute the specific area winning presentation is performed. When this processing ends, the current command analysis processing ends.

In step S645, the sub-CPU 130a determines whether the received command is a reference counter value command. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the received command is not a reference counter value command (step S645; No), it proceeds to step S647. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the received command is a reference counter value command (step S645; Yes), it proceeds to step S646.

In step S646, the sub-CPU 130a performs a complete function pre-activation notification process. In this complete function pre-activation notification process, the counter value of the reference value counter and the current game status are referenced to determine whether to execute a complete function activation warning notification or a complete function activation advance notification.

The "Complete Function Activation Warning" notifies the player that the functions related to game progress are about to stop before the complete function is activated, and also notifies the player of the quantitative change in the remaining value display of the reference value counter up to the predetermined reference value at which the complete function will be activated.

The "Complete Function Activation Notification" notifies players that a predetermined threshold has been reached (the complete function activation condition has been met) during a small win or jackpot game, which will cause the complete function to be activated, and also notifies players that the functions related to game progress will stop (the complete function will be activated) after the jackpot game has ended.

In step S647, the sub-CPU 130a determines whether the received command is a complete function activation command. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the received command is not a complete function activation command (step S647; No), it terminates the current command analysis process. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the received command is a complete function activation command (step S647; Yes), it proceeds to step S648.

In step S648, the sub-CPU 130a performs complete function activation notification processing. In this complete function activation notification processing, the current game status is referenced to determine whether to execute the complete function activation notification.

(Variable performance pattern determination process)
FIG. 56 is a flowchart illustrating the variable presentation pattern determination process performed by the presentation control unit 130m.
The sub-CPU 130a executes a variable performance pattern determination process when the variable performance pattern designation command transmitted from the main control board 110 is stored in the reception buffer. This variable performance pattern determination process determines a variable performance pattern that indicates how to control the various performance devices (performance button device 6A, selection button device 6B, sound output device 9, board drive device 17, board lighting device 23, frame lighting device 27) including the image display devices 16 and 18 during the variable display of the special symbols.

In step S701, the sub-CPU 130a acquires the random number value for effect updated in step S540.
In step S702, the sub-CPU 130a refers to the current game state and the presentation mode, and refers to the variable presentation pattern determination table. The presentation mode indicates the currently set game state.

In step S703, the sub-CPU 130a determines one variable effect pattern from among multiple variable effect patterns based on the variable effect pattern determination table set in step S702 and the random number value for effect obtained in step S701.

In step S704, the sub-CPU 130a sets a variable performance pattern designation command in the transmission data storage area to transmit the variable performance pattern determined in step S703 above to the image control unit 140 and lamp control unit 150. When the variable performance pattern designation command is sent to the image control unit 140 and lamp control unit 150, the performance button device 6A, audio output device 9, image display devices 16, 18, board drive device 17, board lighting device 23, and frame lighting device 27 are controlled based on the variable performance pattern designation command.

In step S705, the sub-CPU 130a sets the variable performance time, which is the performance time corresponding to the variable performance pattern determined in step S703 above, in the variable performance timer counter in the sub-RAM 130c.

In step S706, the sub-CPU 130a sets the variable effect data corresponding to the variable effect pattern in the variable effect data storage area of the sub-RAM 130c. Note that the variable effect timer counter is decremented by 1 every 4 ms in step S602 above. The sub-CPU 130a can use the variable effect timer counter to determine the remaining time for the variable effect, in other words, the time that has elapsed since the variable effect started.

In step S707, the sub-CPU 130a performs a hold icon display update process. Specifically, based on the icon change scenario determined in the preview performance determination process in step S633 above, it determines whether to change the display mode of the hold icon displayed on the image display device 16 and what the display mode will be after the change, identifies a hold icon change designation command corresponding to this decision, and sets the identified hold icon change designation command in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c.

The hold icon change command set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c is sent to the image control unit 140 in the data output process of step S606 above. The image control unit 140 then changes the display mode of the hold icon.

In step S708, the sub-CPU 130a performs processing to determine the display mode of the variable icon. Specifically, based on the variable presentation pattern determined in step S703 above, it determines whether to change the display mode of the variable icon displayed on the image display device 16 and the display mode after the change, identifies the variable icon designation command corresponding to this determination, and sets the identified variable icon designation command in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c.

The variable icon designation command set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c is sent to the image control unit 140 in the data output process of step S606 above. The image control unit 140 then displays the variable icon in a display mode corresponding to the variable icon designation command.

In step S709, the sub-CPU 130a sets special pattern change display data in a predetermined processing area to cause the first special pattern second display 20a or the second special pattern second display 20b to display a changing special pattern (LED flashing). As a result, when the special pattern change display data has been set in the predetermined processing area, display control data is created in step S605 above, and the created data is output in step S606, starting the changing display on the first special pattern second display 20a or the second special pattern second display 20b.

In step S710, the sub-CPU 130a sets a special symbol variable display designation command for displaying a special symbol in a variable manner in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c.
The special symbol variable display command set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c is transmitted to the image control unit 140 in the data output process of step S606. Then, the image control unit 140 performs variable display of the special symbol in the special symbol display area TZ.

(Processing while waiting for the link device to operate)
FIG. 57 is a flowchart illustrating the processing performed by the performance control unit 130m while waiting for the combination device to operate.
First, in step S801, the sub-CPU 130a analyzes the received condition device command.
Next, in step S802, the sub-CPU 130a analyzes the received special symbol designation command and determines whether the type of win is a big win or a small win.

In step S803, the sub-CPU 130a selects an activation waiting effect pattern by an image to be displayed on the image display device 16 if the analysis result of the special symbol designation command indicates a big win.
For example, as the activation waiting presentation pattern, an operation presentation pattern (see Figure 69 (7), Figures 70 (5) to (7), Figure 71 (7)) that displays a gate passage promotion image that encourages the game ball to pass through gate 12, which triggers the start of round play, or an operation presentation pattern (see Figure 69 (7)) that encourages the game ball to be fired toward the right area 4a2 of the game area 4a and displays an image that encourages the game ball to pass through gate 12, may be selected.

In step S804, the sub-CPU 130a reads out from the sub-ROM 130b the image data and audio data to be used for the performance according to the selected activation waiting performance pattern, and sets this data along with an activation waiting performance command indicating the selected performance in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c, thereby terminating the processing for waiting for the activation of the current winning combination device.
In this way, when the type of winning is a big winning symbol, a predetermined image is displayed on the image display device 16 from the time when the variation stop command is received until the time when the winning combination device operation start command is received.

(Ring device operation performance selection processing)
FIG. 58 is a flowchart illustrating the process of selecting the performance of the linked winning device by the performance control unit 130m.
First, in step S811, the sub-CPU 130a analyzes the received link device operation start command.

Next, in step S812, the sub-CPU 130a analyzes the received special symbol designation command and determines whether the type of win is a big win or a small win.

In step S813, if the analysis result of the special symbol designation command indicates a jackpot, the sub-CPU 130a selects a winning combination device operation presentation pattern according to the content obtained from the analysis result of the winning combination device operation start command.
As a combination device operation presentation pattern, for example, a round presentation including an operation presentation pattern (see Figure 69 (8), Figure 70 (8), Figure 71 (8)) that displays a large prize opening entry promotion image that encourages the game ball to enter the large prize opening is selected.

In step S814, the sub-CPU 130a reads from the sub-ROM 130b the image data and audio data used for the performance of the selected combination device operation performance pattern, and sets this data, along with a combination device operation performance command instructing the selected performance, in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c, and ends the current combination device operation performance selection process.

(Complete function pre-activation notification process)
FIG. 59 is a flowchart illustrating the notification process before the completion function is activated by the performance control unit 130m.
In step S815, the sub-CPU 130a analyzes the reference value counter update command received in step S645 and determines whether the counter value of the updated reference value counter is greater than or equal to the first reference value (C1) (e.g., C1 = 90,000).

If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the value is not equal to or greater than the first reference value (C1) (step S815; No), the sub-CPU 130a proceeds to step S822.
In step S822, the sub-CPU 130a determines whether or not the complete function activation warning effect is being executed. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the complete function activation warning effect is not being executed (step S822; No), it ends the current complete function activation pre-notification process. If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the complete function activation warning effect is being executed (step S822; Yes), it proceeds to step S823.

In step S823, the sub-CPU 130a sets a complete function activation warning effect end command to instruct the end of the complete function activation warning effect.

In step S816, the sub-CPU 130a determines whether the counter value of the updated reference value counter is greater than or equal to a second reference value (C2) (e.g., C2 = 95,000).

If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the value is greater than or equal to the second reference value (C2) (step S816; Yes), it proceeds to step S819; if it determines that the value is not greater than or equal to the second reference value (C2) (step S816; No), it proceeds to step S817.

In step S817, if the counter value of the updated reference value counter is the first reference value (C1), the sub-CPU 130a selects the presentation pattern for the complete function activation warning notification, which is the presentation mode for the complete function activation warning notification executed by the presentation devices including the image display device 16 (audio output device 9, board lighting device 23, frame lighting device 27), and proceeds to step S818.

In step S818, the sub-CPU 130a sets the complete function activation warning notification instruction command, which instructs the selected complete function activation warning notification, in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c. As a result, the complete function activation warning notification instruction command is sent to the image control unit 140 and the lamp control unit 150, and the image control unit 140 and the lamp control unit 150 read the image data, audio data, and lamp data used for the complete function activation warning notification from the image ROM (not shown), audio ROM (not shown), and lamp ROM 150b, respectively, and perform processing to execute the complete function activation warning notification.

In step S819, if the counter value of the updated reference value counter is the second reference value (C2), the sub-CPU 130a determines whether the current game situation is a small win or a big win. Specifically, the current game situation can be determined based on the information contained in the various commands received in steps S623, S629, S635, S637, S639, S641, S643, etc.

If the sub-CPU 130a determines that a small win or a big win is not currently being played (step S819; No), it terminates the current complete function pre-activation notification process. If it determines that a small win or a big win is currently being played (step S819; Yes), it proceeds to step S820.

In step S820, the sub-CPU 130a selects a presentation pattern for the complete function activation notice, which is the presentation mode for the complete function activation notice executed by the presentation devices including the image display device 16 (audio output device 9, board lighting device 23, frame lighting device 27), and proceeds to step S821.

In step S821, the sub-CPU 130a sets the complete function activation notice instruction command, which instructs the selected complete function activation notice, in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c. This causes the complete function activation notice instruction command to be sent to the image control unit 140 and the lamp control unit 150, and the image control unit 140 and the lamp control unit 150 read the image data, audio data, and lamp data used for the complete function activation notice from the image ROM (not shown), audio ROM (not shown), and lamp ROM 150b, respectively, and perform processing to execute the complete function activation notice.

(Complete function operation notification process)
FIG. 60 is a flowchart illustrating the complete function activation notification process performed by the performance control unit 130m.
In step S824, when the sub-CPU 130a receives the complete function activation command in step S647, it determines whether the current game status is a small win game or a big win game. Specifically, the current game status can be determined based on the information included in the various commands received in steps S623, S629, S635, S637, S639, S641, S643, etc.

If the sub-CPU 130a determines that a small win or a big win is occurring (step S824; Yes), it terminates the current complete function activation notification process. If it determines that a small win or a big win is not occurring (step S824; No), it proceeds to step S825.

In step S825, the sub-CPU 130a selects a presentation pattern for the complete function activation notification, which is the presentation mode for the complete function activation notification executed by the presentation devices including the image display device 16 (audio output device 9, board lighting device 23, frame lighting device 27), and proceeds to step S826.

In step S826, the sub-CPU 130a sets the complete function activation notification instruction command, which instructs the selected complete function activation notification, in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 130c. This causes the complete function activation notification instruction command to be sent to the image control unit 140 and lamp control unit 150, and the image control unit 140 and lamp control unit 150 read the image data, audio data, and lamp data used for the complete function activation notification from the image ROM (not shown), audio ROM (not shown), and lamp ROM 150b, respectively, and perform processing to execute the complete function activation notification.

(Notification mode and execution period of notification regarding the complete function)
FIG. 61 is an explanatory diagram of the types of notifications, notification formats, and execution periods for the complete function.
As described above, notifications related to the complete function include a complete function activation warning notification, a complete function activation advance notification, and a complete function activation notification.

The complete function activation warning notification notifies the player that the execution of the complete function activation is approaching by displaying an alarm image on the image display device 16, outputting sound effects from the speaker 9, and lighting up the lamps of the board lighting device 23 and the frame lighting device 27.
Specifically, the notification image displays the remaining value (5000 remaining) of the reference value counter up to the second reference value (C2) at which the complete function will be activated, and then notifies of quantitative changes by updating the remaining value of the reference value counter in units of 100 each time the hundreds digit is updated.
The notification image is continuously displayed from the time when the first reference value is reached until the execution of the complete function activation notice starts, or from the time when the first reference value is reached until the execution of the complete function activation starts.

A sound effect is output when the first reference value is reached, and the lamp flashes for a certain period of time after the first reference value is reached. The output of the sound effect and the flashing of the lamp notify that the complete function activation warning state has been entered. Note that the sound effect output and the lamp lighting do not have to be executed.

The complete function activation notice is issued during a small win or a big win game by displaying a notice image on the image display device 16, outputting sound effects from the speaker 9, and flashing the lamps of the board lighting device 23 and the frame lighting device 27 to notify players that the complete function will be activated after the big win game ends and functions related to the progress of the game will be stopped.
Specifically, the notification image may display a message image such as "The complete function will be activated after the big win game ends."
The notification image is continuously displayed from the time when the second reference value is reached until the end of the big win game.

The sound effect is different from the sound effect for the complete function activation warning notification, and is output when the second reference value is reached. The lamp flashes in a color different from the color of the lamp for the complete function activation warning notification, and continues to flash for a certain period of time after the second reference value is reached. The output of the sound effect and the flashing of the lamp notify that the state has switched from the complete function activation warning state to the complete function activation notification state. Note that the sound effect does not have to be output and the lamp does not have to be lit.

The complete function activation notification is issued during play other than during a small win or a big win game (while the pattern is changing, while waiting for customers, etc.), by displaying a notification image on the image display device 16, outputting sound effects and voice from the speaker 9, and flashing the lamps of the board lighting device 23 and the frame lighting device 27, to notify that the complete function has been activated and functions related to the progress of the game have been stopped.
Specifically, the notification image may display a message image such as "Complete! End of day!" or "The complete function has been activated. Play is over for today."
The notification image continues to be displayed from the time when the second reference value is reached until the RWM is cleared (with or without a setting change).

The sound effect is different from the sound effects for the complete function activation warning and advance notice, and is output for a fixed period of time after the second reference value is reached. For example, the audio output may be something like "Complete! End of day!" or "The complete function has been activated. Play is over for today." and is output when the second reference value is reached.

The lamp flashes a different color than the complete function activation warning and advance notice lamps, and continues to flash from the time the second reference value is reached until the RWM is cleared (with or without a setting change). Sound effects, audio output, and the flashing lamp indicate that the state has switched from the complete function activation warning state or complete function activation advance notice state to the complete function activation state.

The complete function activation notification is also displayed on the performance indicator 111, and "Er. 5" is displayed as an error related to the game board.

In this way, when the counter value of the reference value counter from when the power was turned on to the present time reaches the first reference value (90,000) while the machine is playing or not playing (waiting for customers), a complete function activation warning is issued. If the counter value of the reference value counter subsequently falls below the first reference value, the complete function activation warning state is released.

When the counter value of the reference value counter from the time the power is turned on to the present time reaches the second reference value (95,000) during play or when not playing (waiting for customers), the complete function is activated and functions related to the progress of the game are stopped.
However, if the second reference value is reached during a small win game or a big win game, the execution of the complete function operation is postponed until the big win game ends, and a complete function operation notice is executed. In other words, even if the second reference value is reached during a small win game or a big win game, the functions related to the progress of the game are not stopped, and prize balls are paid out for the game balls that enter the big win openings 13a and 14a.

Therefore, if the second reference value is reached during a small win game or a big win game, the complete function is activated after the big win game ends and the functions related to the progress of the game are stopped. Furthermore, if a second type jackpot is reached via a small win game, the complete function activation notice continues to be executed until the big win game ends, even after the small win game ends.
On the other hand, if the second reference value is reached during a game other than a small win game or a big win game, or during a non-game period, the complete function is activated and functions related to the progress of the game are stopped regardless of whether the game is currently being played.

(The conditions for the complete function to activate are met while the symbols are changing.)
When the complete function activation condition is met (reaching the second reference value) during a losing variation, the losing variation is stopped and the complete function is activated immediately, and when the complete function activation condition is met (reaching the second reference value) during the fixed stop display of the pattern related to the losing variation, the complete function is activated immediately.

If the complete function activation condition is met (reaching the second reference value) during a jackpot fluctuation, the jackpot fluctuation is stopped and the complete function is activated immediately. Also, if the complete function activation condition is met (reaching the second reference value) during jackpot play, the complete function activation notice is executed and the complete function is activated after the jackpot ends. However, the complete function activation notice will also be executed if the complete function activation condition is met (reaching the second reference value) while the symbols related to the jackpot fluctuation are displayed as confirmed and stopped. If the complete function activation condition is met (reaching the second reference value) during a jackpot fluctuation, the complete function is activated. However, if the complete function activation condition is met (reaching the second reference value) while the symbols related to the jackpot fluctuation are displayed as confirmed and stopped and during jackpot play, the complete function activation notice is executed and the execution of the complete function is postponed until the end of the jackpot play.

In addition, if the complete function activation conditions are met (reaching the second reference value) during a small win variation, the small win variation is stopped and the complete function is activated immediately. Also, if the complete function activation conditions are met (reaching the second reference value) during a small win game, a complete function activation notice is executed, and the complete function is activated after the small win ends, or after the big win game that was executed when the game ball entered the specific area 14e during the small win game ends. However, the complete function activation notice will also be executed if the complete function activation conditions are met (reaching the second reference value) during the fixed stop display of the pattern related to the small win variation. If the complete function activation conditions are met (reaching the second reference value) during a small win fluctuation, the complete function will be activated; however, if the complete function activation conditions are met (reaching the second reference value) while the symbols related to the small win fluctuation are displayed as confirmed and stopped, during a small win game, or during a big win game executed via a small win game, a complete function activation notice will be executed, and the execution of the complete function will be postponed until the end of the small win game (or big win game).

Furthermore, if the complete function activation condition is met (reaches the second reference value) during the big win fluctuation or small win fluctuation display, a complete function activation notice may be executed.
In this way, when the condition for activating the complete function is met (reaching the second reference value) while the pattern is changing (for example, during a reach), the timing of the execution of the complete function activation differs depending on whether it is determined to be a jackpot or a miss.

When the second reference value is reached during a small win or jackpot game, the complete function enters standby mode. However, if a game ball enters the large prize opening 13a or 14a when the reference value counter's value is 94,999, the reference value counter's value is updated to 95,014 in response to the payout of 15 prize balls. Even if a payout is made in response to a game ball entering the large prize opening 13a or 14a during a subsequent small win or jackpot game, the reference value counter's value will not be updated.

If a game ball enters the second start opening 11a when the counter value of the reference value counter is 94,999 while the symbols are changing, even if the second reference value (95,000) is reached, the functions related to the progress of the game will be stopped after the prize ball corresponding to the entry is paid out.

(The conditions for the complete function to be activated are met during the performance of the special feature)
If the complete function activation condition is met (reaches the second reference value) during the execution of a role-playing effect by movable performance members 17A-17C and the complete function is activated, the role-playing effect is immediately stopped regardless of the position of movable performance members 17A-17c during the performance operation. A dedicated return operation is then performed when the complete function is activated, returning movable performance members 17A-17c to their stop position (origin position). The control to stop the role-playing effect and the dedicated return operation are immediately performed in response to the execution of the complete function activation. This avoids the inconvenience of the notification image being hidden by movable performance members 17A-17C, making it difficult for the player to recognize that the complete function is being activated, if the notification image is displayed while movable performance members 17A-17C remain stopped in the activated position (performance position).

On the other hand, for example, if the complete function activation condition is met (reaching the second reference value) while an audio effect or a lamp effect is being executed and the complete function is activated, the audio effect or lamp effect being executed will continue until the effect is completed. As with the role-playing effect, the audio effect or lamp effect being executed may also be immediately stopped when the complete function is activated. In this case, the audio effect may be muted so that the audio related to the audio effect is inaudible to the player, while playback control of the audio data may continue. At this time, the audio related to the activation of the complete function is output to the player at an audible volume.

(Menu operation when the complete function is active)
Even when the complete function activation condition is met (the second reference value is reached) and the complete function is activated during play or when not playing (waiting for customers, error notification), menu operations (displaying the menu screen, pachinko log, adjusting volume and light intensity, etc.) can be performed by operating the effect button 6a or the selection button 6f.
Here, the "menu screen" is displayed by a player's operation or after a predetermined time has passed, and is provided to provide the player with various additional functions and non-game information.

"Pachilog" is a game in which the gaming machine stores information about the game's history.
"Volume/light intensity adjustment" is a function that allows the player to customize the volume of the sound effects output from the audio output device 9 as well as the light intensity (emission intensity) of various lighting devices (board lighting device 18, frame lighting device 27) to their liking.

Furthermore, once the complete function is activated, all menu operations (displaying the menu screen, pachinko log, adjusting volume and light intensity, etc.) performed by operating the effect button 6a or the selection button 6f may be rendered unexecutable. Also, only some operations may be rendered unexecutable, such as making the effect button 6a operations (displaying the menu screen, pachinko log) unexecutable while the selection button 6f operations (adjusting volume and light intensity) are executable.

(The complete function activation condition is met when the pending sequence is stored.)
If the complete function activation condition is met (reaching the second reference value) during a small win game or a big win game and reserved information (so-called reserved consecutive wins) that has previously determined a jackpot win is stored, the jackpot game corresponding to the reserved consecutive wins will not be executed after the end of the jackpot game. Also, during a small win game or a big win game, reserved consecutive win effects that suggest that the reserved information includes a jackpot win will not be executed.

In addition, even if the complete function activation condition is met (the second reference value is reached) during a small win or a big win game and reserved information (so-called reserved streak) that pre-determines a jackpot win is stored, after the end of the jackpot game, the jackpot game corresponding to the reserved streak may be executed without activating the complete function, and the complete function may be activated after the end of the jackpot game corresponding to the reserved streak.

(Power outage occurs when the conditions for the complete function are met during a jackpot game.)
If the power is cut off due to a power outage while the complete function activation condition is met (the second reference value is reached) during a jackpot game, when the power is restored and the backup is restored, the functions related to the progress of the game will be stopped after the restarted jackpot game ends. Note that the functions related to the progress of the game may be configured to continue to be executed even after the restarted jackpot game ends.

(An error occurred while issuing a complete function activation warning (advance notice))
FIG. 62 is a diagram showing whether or not the execution of the complete function operation warning (advance notice) notification continues when an error occurs during the execution of the complete function operation warning (advance notice).
(RWM abnormality occurs)
If an RWM abnormality occurs while a complete function activation warning or a complete function activation notice is being displayed, functions related to the progress of the game are stopped, and the currently executing complete function activation warning or currently executing complete function activation notice is terminated (it is not continuously displayed).

More specifically, if the power supply to the gaming machine is cut off while a complete function activation warning or complete function activation notice is being issued, and the backed-up checksum value is not normal when the power supply to the gaming machine is subsequently resumed, an RWM abnormality is detected, and unrecoverable error processing is performed in step S34 described above.

If an RWM abnormality is determined, the authenticity of the various backup contents, including data related to the reference value counter, will no longer be referenced. Furthermore, the RWM abnormality determination result and unrecoverable error notification will not be canceled until the RWM is cleared (with or without a setting change), so the data related to the reference value counter before the power supply was cut off will have to be cleared, and as a result, any complete function activation warning notification or complete function activation notification that was in progress before the power supply was cut off will end (it will not continue to be displayed).

(Magnetic error occurs)
If a magnetic error occurs while a complete function activation warning is being displayed, functions related to the progress of the game (for example, pattern changes, detection of game balls by the detection switches of each winning slot, energization of solenoids controlled by the main control board, operation of the launch device, etc.) are stopped and the notification image related to the magnetic error begins to be displayed, but since the data related to the reference value counter in the game RWM area of main RAM 110c is not cleared, the notification image of the complete function activation warning that is being displayed continues to be displayed together with the notification image related to the magnetic error.

Similarly, if a magnetic error occurs during the execution of the complete function activation notification, functions related to game progress will be stopped and the notification image related to the magnetic error will begin to be displayed. However, since the data related to the reference value counter in the gaming RWM area of main RAM 110c is not cleared, the notification image for the complete activation notification that is currently being executed will continue to be displayed along with the notification image related to the magnetic error.

In addition, "stopping a function related to the progress of a game" may mean interrupting or ceasing a function related to the progress of a game.
If the "stopping of functions related to the progress of a game" is a specification that corresponds to the interruption of functions related to the progress of a game, once the magnetic error is cleared, the functions related to the progress of a game will resume from the state they were in immediately before the magnetic error occurred.
More specifically, for example, if a magnetic error occurs while a complete function operation warning is being issued and a pattern change is in progress, the complete function operation warning image and a magnetic error notification image are displayed while the pattern change is interrupted (counting of the pattern change time is temporarily stopped). After that, when the magnetic error is released, the complete operation warning image is displayed while the pattern change resumes from the state before the magnetic error occurred (counting of the pattern change time is resumed).

Furthermore, if the "stopping of functions related to the progress of a game" is a specification equivalent to the suspension of functions related to the progress of a game, even if the magnetic error is cleared, the functions related to the progress of a game will not resume from the state immediately before the magnetic error occurred.
More specifically, for example, if a magnetic error occurs while a complete function operation warning is being issued and a pattern change is in progress, the complete function operation warning image and a magnetic error notification image are displayed, and the pattern change is halted (the count of the pattern change time is stopped and discarded). After that, even if the magnetic error is released, the complete operation warning notification image continues to be displayed, but the pattern change does not resume from the state before the magnetic error occurred (the count of the pattern change time is not resumed).

(Occurrence of radio wave error or vibration error)
If a radio wave error or vibration error occurs during the execution of a complete function activation warning or a complete function activation notice, the functions related to the progress of the game are not stopped, and the data related to the reference value counter in the game RWM area of the main RAM 110c is not cleared, so the notification image of the complete function activation warning or complete function activation notice that is currently being executed continues to be displayed.

(Main processing of the image control unit)
FIG. 63 is a flowchart illustrating the main processing by the image control unit 140.
In step S830, the general CPU 141 sets an interrupt prohibition to prohibit timer interrupts.
In step S831, the general CPU 141 reads the main processing program from the general ROM 143 and performs initialization processing to initialize flags and the like stored in the general RAM 142.

In step S832, the general CPU 141 sets an interrupt permission to permit a timer interrupt.
In step S833, the overall CPU 141 performs a mode switching process to switch the adjustment mode related to the adjustment of the volume (value) of the effect sound output from the audio output device 9 and the brightness (value) of the image display devices 16, 18 and various lighting devices (board lighting device 23, frame lighting device 27), for example, by referring to the state (switch position) of a switch that can be operated by a gaming store employee.

In step S834, the overall CPU 141 refers to the receive buffer of the overall RAM 142 to determine whether a performance instruction command has been received from the performance control unit 130m. If a performance instruction command has not been received (step S834; No), the process proceeds to step S836. If a performance instruction command has been received (step S834; Yes), the process proceeds to step S835.

In step S835, an animation pattern setting process is performed to determine an animation pattern from the animation group type corresponding to the received performance instruction command and set it in a specified area of the general RAM 142.

Performance instruction commands include customer waiting performance commands that instruct the execution of customer waiting performances, icon display commands that instruct the addition of hold displays or changes to the display mode, variable performance pattern commands that instruct the execution of variable performances, preview performance commands that instruct the execution of preview performances, role link device operation waiting performance commands that instruct the execution of role link device operation waiting performances, role link device operation performance commands that instruct the execution of role link device operation performances, opening performance commands that instruct the execution of opening performances, round performance commands that instruct the execution of round performances, and ending performance commands that instruct the execution of ending performances. These include a command to issue a specific area win promotion effect which commands the execution of a specific area win promotion effect, a command for a specific area win effect which commands the execution of a specific area win effect, a power on notification command which commands the execution of a power on effect, a power recovery notification command which commands the execution of a power recovery notification, an error notification command which commands an error notification, a complete function activation warning effect command which commands the execution of a complete function activation warning effect, a complete function activation notification effect command which commands the execution of a complete function activation notification effect, and a complete function activation effect command which commands the execution of a complete function activation effect.

An animation group is a group formed by bundling together one or more animation patterns, which are information that specifies (specifies) the type of object that makes up the effect image, the scene (timing) and wait frame (display time) for displaying the effect image, target data (sprite image identification number, source address, etc.), parameters (sprite image display position, destination address, etc.), drawing method, and information specifying the image display device that will display the effect image.

Types of animation groups include, for example, groups of effect symbols for displaying animations of effect symbols 16a, groups of icons for displaying animations of hold icons and the corresponding variable icons, groups of variable effects for displaying animations of variable effects such as backgrounds and characters, groups of preview effects for displaying animations of previews, etc., groups of condition device activation waiting effects for displaying animations while waiting for a condition device to activate, groups of role combination device activation effects for displaying animations of role combination device activation effects, groups of jackpot effects for displaying animations of jackpot effects, groups of complete function activation warning effects for displaying animations of complete function activation warning effects, groups of complete function activation preview effects for displaying animations of complete function activation preview effects, and groups of complete function activation effects for displaying animations of complete function activation effects.

In step S836, the overall CPU 141 performs sound setting processing to determine and set a sound pattern from a sound group of a type corresponding to the received effect instruction command. Types of sound groups include, for example, a BGM group for producing effect modes, a BGM group for producing specific variable effects, an SE (sound effect (sound effects and voice sounds)) group associated with a specified effect, a BGM group for producing a jackpot game, and an error sound group for notifying errors.

In step S837, the overall CPU 141 determines whether or not there is a frame switch flag indicating that it is time to update the effect image or notification image displayed on the image display devices 16, 18 (drawing a new effect image or notification image). If there is no frame switch flag (step S837; No), the processing proceeds to step S833. If there is a frame switch flag (step S837; Yes), the frame switch flag is cleared in step S838.

In step S839, the overall CPU 141 generates a display list consisting of a group of drawing control commands and performs processing to output the generated display list to the VDP 200. Here, a display list is image formation information for creating performance images and notification images to be displayed on the image display devices 16 and 18, and is generated for each frame or multiple frames (frame update timing); in this embodiment, a display list is generated for each frame.

Specifically, a display list for one frame corresponding to the current frame number is generated by setting drawing control commands according to the contents of the animation scene information (address) for each animation pattern, which is updated in the animation control process described below. The drawing control commands are set in order from the animation pattern of the animation group with the lowest priority to the animation pattern of the animation group with the highest priority, according to the priority (drawing order) set for the animation group to which each animation pattern belongs, but the reverse order is also possible.

In step S840, the overall CPU 141 performs drawing command processing to instruct the VDP 200 to draw a performance image based on the display list output in step S839. By performing this drawing command processing, the VDP 200 generates image data that superimposes performance images and notification images based on the display list, draws the image data in the drawing frame buffer, and performs processing to display the performance images drawn in the display frame buffer on the image display devices 16 and 18.

In step S841, the overall CPU 141 generates a sound list consisting of a group of sound control commands and performs processing to output the generated sound list to the audio control circuit 300. Here, a sound list is audio output information for specifying sounds (BGM, sound effects, error notification sounds, etc.) such as audio data and music data to be output from the audio output device 9, and is generated based on the drawing frame when outputting a new sound.

In step S842, the overall CPU 141 performs sound output command processing to instruct the audio control circuit 300 to output sound based on the sound list output in step S841. By performing this sound output command processing, the audio control circuit 300 causes the audio output device 9 to output sound based on the sound list.

For this reason, output of various sounds from the audio output device 9 is started in synchronization (synchronization) with the frame update timing by the VDP 200, and output from the audio output device 9 is ended in synchronization (synchronization) with the frame update timing. Note that output of various sounds from the audio output device 9 may be stopped so as not to be synchronized (synchronized) with the frame update timing.

In step S843, the overall CPU 141 performs animation control processing to update the animation scene information (address) for each set animation pattern in preparation for creating the display list for the next frame, then returns to step S833, where it repeatedly performs steps S834 to S843 in a loop.

(Animation pattern setting process)
FIG. 64 is a flowchart illustrating the animation pattern setting process by the image control unit 140.
In step S860, the central CPU 141 determines whether the received effect instruction command is a customer waiting effect command. If the central CPU 141 determines that the effect instruction command is not a customer waiting effect command (step S860; No), the central CPU 141 proceeds to step S862. If the central CPU 141 determines that the effect instruction command is a customer waiting effect command (step S860; Yes), the central CPU 141 proceeds to step S861.

In step S861, the overall CPU 141 performs a setting process for the customer waiting effect animation pattern, determining the customer waiting effect animation pattern from a group of customer waiting effect animations for displaying the customer waiting effect animation and setting the customer waiting effect animation pattern in a specified area of the overall RAM 142.

In step S862, the overall CPU 141 determines whether the received performance instruction command is a command to display an icon. If the overall CPU 141 determines that the command is not a command to display an icon (step S862; No), it proceeds to step S864. If the overall CPU 141 determines that the command is a command to display an icon (step S862; Yes), it proceeds to step S863.

In step S863, the overall CPU 141 determines an icon animation pattern from a group of icons for displaying the animation of the pending icon or the animation of the variable icon, and performs an icon animation pattern setting process to set the icon animation pattern in a specified area of the overall RAM 142.

In step S864, the overall CPU 141 determines whether the received effect instruction command is a variable effect pattern command. If the overall CPU 141 determines that the received effect instruction command is not a variable effect pattern command (step S864; No), it proceeds to step S866. If the overall CPU 141 determines that the received effect instruction command is a variable effect pattern command (step S864; Yes), it proceeds to step S865.

In step S865, the overall CPU 141 performs a setting process for the animation pattern of the change effect, determining the animation pattern of the change effect from a group of change effects for displaying background animation and character animation, and setting the animation pattern of the change effect in a specified area of the overall RAM 142.

In step S866, the overall CPU 141 determines whether the received effect instruction command is a command for a specific area prize-winning promotion effect. If the overall CPU 141 determines that the command is not a command for a specific area prize-winning promotion effect (step S866; No), it proceeds to step S868. If the overall CPU 141 determines that the command is a command for a specific area prize-winning promotion effect (step S866; Yes), it proceeds to step S867.

In step S867, the overall CPU 141 performs a setting process for the animation pattern of the specific area winning promotion effect, determining an animation pattern from a group of specific area winning promotion effects to display the animation of the specific area winning promotion effect and setting it in a specified area of the overall RAM 142.

In step S868, the overall CPU 141 determines whether the received effect instruction command is a command for an effect waiting for the combination device to operate. If the overall CPU 141 determines that the command is not a command for an effect waiting for the combination device to operate (step S868; No), it proceeds to step S870. If the overall CPU 141 determines that the command is a command for an effect waiting for the combination device to operate (step S868; Yes), it proceeds to step S869.

In step S869, the overall CPU 141 performs setting processing for the animation pattern of the combination device operation waiting effect, determining the animation pattern of the combination device operation waiting effect from the group of combination device operation waiting effects for displaying the combination device operation waiting effect, and setting it in a specified area of the overall RAM 142.

In step S870, the overall CPU 141 determines whether the received effect instruction command is a command for a winning combination device activation effect. If the overall CPU 141 determines that the command is not a command for a winning combination device activation effect (step S870; No), it proceeds to step S872. If the overall CPU 141 determines that the command is a command for a winning combination device activation effect (step S870; Yes), it proceeds to step S871.

In step S871, the overall CPU 141 performs setting processing for the animation pattern of the winning combination device operation effect, determining the animation pattern of the winning combination device operation effect from the group of winning combination device operation effects for displaying the winning combination device operation effect, and setting it in a specified area of the overall RAM 142.

In step S872, the overall CPU 141 determines whether the received effect instruction command is an opening effect command. If the overall CPU 141 determines that the received effect instruction command is not an opening effect command (step S872; No), it proceeds to step S874. If the overall CPU 141 determines that the received effect instruction command is an opening effect command (step S872; Yes), it proceeds to step S873.

In step S873, the overall CPU 141 performs an opening effect animation pattern setting process, determining an opening effect animation pattern from the opening effect group for displaying the opening effect and setting the opening effect animation pattern in a specified area of the overall RAM 142c.

In step S874, the overall CPU 141 determines whether the received effect instruction command is a round effect command. If the overall CPU 141 determines that the received effect instruction command is not a round effect command (step S874; No), it proceeds to step S876. If the overall CPU 141 determines that the received effect instruction command is a round effect command (step S874; Yes), it proceeds to step S875.

In step S875, the overall CPU 141 performs a setting process for the round animation pattern, determining an animation pattern for the round from a group of round effects for displaying the round effects and setting the animation pattern in a predetermined area of the overall RAM 142.

In step S876, the overall CPU 141 determines whether the received effect instruction command is an ending effect command. If the overall CPU 141 determines that the received effect instruction command is not an ending effect command (step S876; No), it proceeds to step S878. If the overall CPU 141 determines that the received effect instruction command is an ending effect command (step S876; Yes), it proceeds to step S877.

In step S877, the overall CPU 141 performs an ending animation pattern determination process to determine an ending animation pattern from the ending animation group for displaying the ending animation and set it in a predetermined area of the overall RAM 142.

In step S878, the overall CPU 141 determines whether the received effect instruction command is a command for a specific area winning effect. If the overall CPU 141 determines that the command is not a command for a specific area winning effect (step S878; No), it proceeds to step S879. If the overall CPU 141 determines that the command is a command for a specific area winning effect (step S878; Yes), it proceeds to step S879.

In step S879, the overall CPU 141 performs a process to determine the animation pattern of the specific area winning effect from a group of specific area winning effects for displaying the specific area winning effect, and sets the animation pattern of the specific area winning effect in a predetermined area of the overall RAM 142.

In step S880, the overall CPU 141 determines whether the received effect instruction command is a power-on effect command. If the overall CPU 141 determines that the received effect instruction command is not a power-on notification command (step S880; No), it proceeds to step S882. If the overall CPU 141 determines that the received effect instruction command is a power-on notification command (step S880; Yes), it proceeds to step S881.

In step S881, the overall CPU 141 performs a power-on notification animation pattern setting process, determining a power-on notification animation pattern from a group of power-on notifications to display the power-on notification, and setting the pattern in a specified area of the overall RAM 142.

In step S882, the overall CPU 141 determines whether the received performance instruction command is a power restoration notification command. If the overall CPU 141 determines that the received command is not a power restoration notification command (step S882; No), it proceeds to step S884. If the overall CPU 141 determines that the received command is a power restoration notification command (step S882; Yes), it proceeds to step S883.

In step S883, the overall CPU 141 performs a power restoration notification animation pattern setting process, determining a power-on notification animation pattern from the power restoration notification group for displaying the power restoration notification and setting the pattern in a specified area of the overall RAM 142.

In step S884, the overall CPU 141 determines whether the received performance instruction command is an error notification command. If the overall CPU 141 determines that the command is not an error notification command (step S884; No), it proceeds to step S886. If the overall CPU 141 determines that the command is an error notification command (step S884; Yes), it proceeds to step S885.

In step S885, the overall CPU 141 performs an error notification animation pattern setting process, determining an error notification animation pattern from the error notification group for displaying the error notification and setting the pattern in a specified area of the overall RAM 142.

In step S886, the overall CPU 141 determines whether the received performance instruction command is a command for notifying a complete function activation warning. If the overall CPU 141 determines that the command is not a command for notifying a complete function activation warning (step S886; No), it proceeds to step S888. If the overall CPU 141 determines that the command is a command for notifying a complete function activation warning (step S886; Yes), it proceeds to step S887.

In step S887, the overall CPU 141 performs a complete function activation warning notification animation pattern setting process, which determines an animation pattern for the complete function activation warning notification from a group of complete function activation warning notifications for displaying the complete function activation warning notification, and sets the animation pattern in a predetermined area of the overall RAM 142.

In step S888, the overall CPU 141 determines whether the received performance instruction command is a command for notifying the user of a complete function activation advance notice. If the overall CPU 141 determines that the command is not a command for notifying the user of a complete function activation advance notice (step S888; No), it proceeds to step S890. If the overall CPU 141 determines that the command is a command for notifying the user of a complete function activation advance notice (step S888; Yes), it proceeds to step S889.

In step S889, the overall CPU 141 performs a complete function activation preview notification animation pattern setting process, determining an animation pattern for the complete function activation preview notification from a group of complete function activation preview notifications for displaying the complete function activation preview notification, and setting the animation pattern in a specified area of the overall RAM 142.

In step S890, the overall CPU 141 determines whether the received effect instruction command is a command to notify the completion function of activation. If the overall CPU 141 determines that the command is not a command to notify the completion function of activation (step S890; No), it terminates the current animation pattern setting process. If the overall CPU 141 determines that the command is a command to notify the completion function of activation (step S890; Yes), it proceeds to step S891.

In step S891, the overall CPU 141 performs a setting process for the complete function activation notification animation pattern, determining an animation pattern for the complete function activation notification from the group of complete function activation notifications for displaying the complete function activation notification and setting it in a predetermined area of the overall RAM 142, and then ends the current animation pattern setting process.

(Example of notification image for complete function)
FIG. 65 is a diagram showing an example of a complete function activation warning notification image CK.
As shown in Figures 65(a) to (c), the complete function activation warning notification image CK is a quantitative change notification image that notifies of quantitative changes until a predetermined condition for stopping a game-related function (complete function activation condition) is reached.
The complete function activation warning notification image CK is composed of a text display and a display of the remaining value of the reference value counter up to the second reference value (C2) at which the complete function activation will be executed, and is updated in units of 100 each time the hundreds digit of the remaining value of the reference value counter is updated.

The complete function activation warning notification image CK will continue to be displayed after it starts to show the complete function activation notice or until the complete function activation starts. When the remaining value display on the reference value counter falls below 100, the entire image will flash, or only the remaining value display on the reference value counter will flash.

The remaining value display of the reference value counter may be updated every 1 unit, every 1000 units, or every 500 units.
The remaining value display of the reference value counter may also be updated in units of 1000. For example, the remaining value display of the reference value counter may display "4001 to 5000 remaining until the complete function is activated," and then be updated to "3001 to 4000 remaining until the complete function is activated." After that, when the remaining value display of the reference value counter reaches 1 to 1000, it will flash.

As shown in Figure 65 (a), if the complete function activation warning condition is met (the first reference value is reached) during the changing display of the three performance patterns, a complete function activation warning notification image CK is displayed.
The complete function activation warning notification image CK is displayed in a display area on the display unit of the image display device 16 that does not overlap with the hold icon display area 16b, 16c, the variable icon display area 16d, the hold number display area 16e, 16f, the special pattern display area TZ, and the right-hit image 16h (when in time-saving play mode), while being displayed in a display area that overlaps with the variable performance display area 16a (background image, display image of variable performance pattern, preview performance image, etc.) and the display area for the stay performance mode name (display of ``○○ mode'').

Specifically, for example, the complete function activation warning notification image CK is displayed in front of the changing display image and background image of the currently displayed performance pattern 16a and in a display area near the top end of the display unit, so that it is always visible regardless of the progress of the changing performance.
For example, even when a preview performance with a high probability of big win is being executed or when a big win pattern is temporarily stopped and displayed, the complete function operation warning notification image CK1 is always displayed in front of the preview performance image being executed or the big win pattern being temporarily stopped and displayed in a state where it can be seen.
Furthermore, the display size of the complete function activation warning notification image may be switched depending on the progress of the variable presentation.
For example, when the complete function operation warning condition is established during a variable presentation with reach, the display size of the complete function operation warning notification image CK is smaller when the reach presentation is being executed than when the variable pattern is being displayed.

As shown in Figure 65 (b), if the complete function activation warning condition is met (the first reference value is reached) during a small win game or a big win game, a complete function activation warning notification image CK is displayed.
The complete function activation warning notification image CK is displayed in a display area that does not overlap with the pending number display areas 16e, 16f, the special pattern display area TZ, the round number display area 16g, the right-hit image 16h display area, the number of won prize balls display area 16k, and operation prompt images (for example, "Aim for the V,""Aim for the gate,""Right-hit image (large)," etc.), while being displayed superimposed on top of the jackpot type notification image (displaying "○○ BONUS"), the small jackpot performance image, and the jackpot performance image.

Specifically, for example, the complete function activation warning notification image CK is displayed in front of the big win effect image GS and in a display area at the center of the display unit, and is always displayed in a visible state regardless of the progress of the big win effect.
The display size of the complete function activation warning notification image may be changed depending on the progress of the small win effect and the big win effect.

As shown in Figure 65 (c), if an error occurs while the complete function activation warning notification image is being displayed (complete function activation warning state), the complete function activation warning notification image and the error notification image will continue to be displayed in a visible state.
Specifically, for example, when a radio wave error occurs, the display size of the complete function operation warning notification image CK being displayed is reduced to be smaller than the display size of the radio wave error notification image EH, and a part of the complete function operation warning notification image CK and a part of the radio wave error notification image EH are displayed overlapping each other so that they can be seen. This makes it possible to avoid the inconvenience of not being able to see either the complete function operation warning notification image CK or the error notification image EH.

When adjusting the volume or light intensity while the complete function activation warning notification image is displayed, the complete function activation warning notification image and the volume/light intensity adjustment image may be displayed in a predetermined positional relationship that prevents them from overlapping, or the complete function activation warning notification image may be displayed superimposed on top of the volume/light intensity adjustment image. This avoids the inconvenience of losing visibility of either the complete function activation warning notification image or the volume/light intensity adjustment image.

In addition, the display size of the complete function activation warning notification image may be reduced to be smaller than the display size of the volume/light intensity adjustment image, so that the complete function activation warning notification image is superimposed on part of the volume/light intensity adjustment image.

In addition, if the complete function activation warning notification image is displayed while the machine is in a customer waiting state, or if the machine enters a customer waiting state while the complete function activation warning notification image is being displayed, the complete function activation warning notification image will be displayed in front of the customer waiting effect image and in the display area at the center of the display unit.

"Volume/Light Intensity Adjustment" is a function that allows players to customize the volume of the sound effects output from the audio output device 9 as well as the light intensity (emission intensity) of the various lighting devices (board lighting device 18, frame lighting device 27) to their liking.

As shown in Figures 66(a) and (b), the complete function activation warning notification image may be notification image CK1 composed of text and a multi-level meter display indicating the remaining value of the reference value counter. In this notification image CK1 composed of text and a meter display, for example, after the entire meter display is lit, the meter will turn off one level each time the remaining value of the reference value counter decreases by 1,000, or after the entire meter display is lit, the meter will turn on one level each time the remaining value of the reference value counter increases by 1,000, and when the remaining value of the reference value counter falls below 1,000, the entire notification image or the meter will flash.

The notification image consisting of characters and a meter display is displayed in front of the variable display image of the currently displayed performance pattern and the background image and in a display area near the left end of the display unit, and is always displayed in a visible state regardless of the progress of the variable performance.
Furthermore, the display size of the notification image for the complete function activation warning may be switched depending on the progress of the variable presentation.

FIG. 67 is an example of the complete function activation advance notification image CY.
The complete function activation warning notification image CY is an image consisting of text only. If the complete function activation warning notification image CY starts to be displayed during a small win game, it will continue to be displayed until the big win game executed via the small win game ends. Also, if the complete function activation warning notification image CY starts to be displayed during a big win game, it will continue to be displayed until the big win game ends.

The complete function activation notice image CY is displayed in a display area on the display unit of the image display device 16 that does not overlap with the reserved number display areas 16e, 16f, special symbol display area TZ, round number display area 16g, right-hit image 16h display area, acquired prize ball number display area 16k, and operation prompt images (e.g., "Aim for V," "Aim for the gate"), while also being displayed in a display area that overlaps with the jackpot type notice image (displaying "○○ BONUS"), small jackpot effect image, and jackpot effect image GS.

Specifically, for example, the complete function operation advance notice image CY is displayed in front of the big win type notice image and the big win performance image GS and in the center of the display section, and is always displayed in a visible state regardless of the progress of the big win performance.
Furthermore, since the notification image for the complete function activation notice is displayed in a transparent state, the big win effect image can also be seen.
In addition, the display size of the notification image for the complete function activation notice may be changed depending on the progress of the small win effect and the big win effect.

FIG. 68 is an example of a complete function activation notification image CS.
The complete function activation notification image CS is an image consisting of only text display. After the complete function activation notification image CS starts to be displayed, it continues to be displayed until the RWM is cleared (with or without a setting change).
The complete function activation notification image CS is displayed on the entire screen of the display unit of the image display device 16 .
The complete function activation notification image CS may be a notification image that displays a two-dimensional barcode or the like in addition to the text display.

In this way, the complete function activation warning notification image and the complete function activation advance notification image have a higher display priority than the variable effect image, small win effect image, big win effect image, and customer waiting effect image, so the player can reliably grasp information regarding the activation of the complete function while in the variable effect, small win game, big win game, or customer waiting state.

The complete function activation warning image and the complete function activation advance notification image are displayed in parallel with the pending number display, special symbol, round number display, and right-hand hit image without overlapping, so you can reliably grasp both information about the complete function and information about the game.

The complete function activation notification image is displayed on the entire screen of the display, drawing the player's attention and allowing them to reliably understand that the complete function has been activated and that functions related to game progress have stopped.

(Example of operation effects executed when a jackpot is achieved in normal mode)
FIG. 69 shows an example of a jackpot variable presentation executed in normal mode.
69(1), in normal mode, the scrolling display (high-speed fluctuation) of the three effect symbols 16a starts, and the fluctuating display of the special symbol TZ starts. Also, two first hold icons are displayed in the first hold icon display area 16b, and no second hold icons are displayed in the second hold icon display area 16c. The first hold number display area 16e displays the hold number "2", and the second hold number display area 16f displays the hold number "0".

As shown in Figure 69 (2), the "4 (rooster)" effect symbol 16a temporarily stops in the left and right areas, and a normal reach effect is executed. After that, a transition effect is executed in which the screen goes white. As shown in Figure 69 (3), the left and right effect symbols 16a rotate and move to the display areas near the top left and right edges of the screen, and only the "4" effect symbol 16a is displayed in a reduced size, and the SP reach effect begins. In the SP reach effect, for example, a mission effect is executed in which the effect button 6a is repeatedly pressed to attempt to destroy a panel. After the mission starts, if the panel is successfully destroyed, an SPSP reach effect development suggestion effect is executed, suggesting that the effect will develop into an SPSP reach effect.

As shown in Figure 69 (4), the SPSP reach effect begins. In the SPSP reach effect, for example, a battle effect is executed in which an ally character unleashes an attack technique to defeat an enemy character. After the battle begins, a victory confirmation effect is executed in which the ally character defeats the enemy character and wins the battle, suggesting that a jackpot has been won. Then, as shown in Figure 69 (5), the "444" combination effect pattern 16a, which indicates a jackpot, is temporarily displayed and then confirmed as a fixed jackpot, and the special pattern TZ is displayed in a "444" combination display mode.

In addition, when the "444" display pattern 16a is displayed as a confirmed stop, a first operation display is executed that displays a first right-hit image 16h that prompts the player to fire the game ball toward the right-side area 4a2 of the game area 4a.
The first right-hit image 16h is an operation prompt image that is displayed in a state in which the text image of "right hit" is superimposed on an image of an arrow pointing to the right. The first right-hit image 16h is displayed in a display area near the upper right corner of the display unit.

As shown in Figure 69 (6), the opening effect OP for the jackpot game begins. In the opening effect OP, the word "BONUS" is displayed, indicating that a 3R jackpot game will be played, and a halo flash is displayed behind the letters, highlighting the word "BONUS." Furthermore, the special symbol TZ is displayed in a stopped state with the combination "444" displayed.

As shown in Figure 69 (7), when the first right-hit image 16h begins to be displayed and continues to be displayed, the "BONUS" display disappears, and a second operation effect is executed, which prompts the player to fire the game ball toward the right-hand area 4a2 of the game area 4a and displays the second right-hit image 16H1, which prompts the game ball to pass through the gate 12.

The second right-hit image 16H1 is an operation prompt image that displays an arrow image indicating the right direction and the text images "Hit right" and "Aim for the gate" superimposed on top of the arrow image. The second right-hit image 16H1 is displayed in the display area at the center of the screen at a display size that is larger than the display size of the arrow image and text image of the first right-hit image 16h.

The operation mode of the launch handle 7 suggested by the second right-hit image 16H1 is the same as the operation mode of the launch handle 7 suggested by the first right-hit image 16h, but the display mode (display content, display size, etc.) of the second right-hit image 16H1 is different from the display mode of the first right-hit image 16h.

Note that the second right-hit image 16H1 is displayed after the "BONUS" display disappears, but the second right-hit image 16H1 may be displayed superimposed on top of the "BONUS" display after the "BONUS" display has been displayed for a predetermined period of time.

The second right-hit image may be displayed with only the text image "Right Hit" superimposed on top of the arrow image. The text image "Aim for the gate" is displayed separately before and after the second right-hit image begins to be displayed.

When the game ball passes through gate 12, the second right-hand hit image 16H1 disappears, and the first round of play begins, as shown in Figure 69 (8), and the round performance RD begins. In the round performance RD, the third operation performance is executed, which displays the large prize entry promotion image 16AH, which encourages the game ball to enter the large prize entry port.

The large prize slot winning promotion image 16AH is an operation promotion image that displays a text image of "Aim for the attacker" to encourage the game ball to win the large prize slot.
The second right-hit image 16H1 is displayed in the display area at the center of the screen at a display size that is larger than the display size of the arrow image and character image of the first right-hit image 16h.

In addition, during the round performance RD, the text image "TOTAL 0015pt" indicating the number of game balls won (paid out) by game balls entering the big prize slot during the round play is updated and displayed, and the first right-hit image 16h continues to be displayed.

After that, when the round game ends, an ending effect ED starts to notify the player that the 4R jackpot game has ended, as shown in Figure 69 (9). In the ending effect, a text image of "TOTAL 00615pt" indicating the number of game balls won (paid out) during the round game is displayed, and the first right-hit image 16h continues to be displayed.
In addition, the right-hit image 16h may be temporarily hidden during the ending performance ED, and then displayed again after the ending performance ends.

As shown in Figure 69 (10), the text image "Entering RUSH" is displayed to notify players that they will enter a time-saving mode corresponding to a low-probability time-saving game state, and a halo flash image is displayed behind the text image, while the first right-hit image 16h continues to be displayed, and furthermore, the special pattern TZ is displayed in a stopped state in the combination display mode of "444."

Furthermore, after the ending performance ED ends or when the notification of entering the time-saving mode begins, a sixth operation performance may be executed, which displays a third right-hit image that encourages the player to fire the game ball toward the right-side area 4a2 of the game area 4a.
The third right-hit image is an operation prompt image that is displayed with an arrow image indicating the right direction and a text image of "right hit" superimposed on the front of the arrow image. The third right-hit image is displayed in the central area of the screen at a display size that is larger than the display size of the first right-hit image 16h.

In this way, when a jackpot (first jackpot) occurs in normal mode, the first right-hit image 16h is displayed, and then the second right-hit image 16H1 is displayed while the first right-hit image 16h continues to be displayed. This makes it possible to reliably notify the player that the game state has switched from the normal game state to the jackpot game state, as well as to notify the start timing of the round game in the jackpot game.

(Example of operation effects executed when a small win occurs in time-saving mode and when a big win occurs via a small win)
Figure 70 shows examples of operation presentations that result in a small win in the time-saving mode and a big win via a small win.

As shown in Figure 70 (1), in time-saving mode, the scrolling display (high-speed fluctuation) of the three effect symbols 16a begins, and the variable display of the special symbol TZ begins. Furthermore, two first hold icons are displayed in the first hold icon display area 16b, two second hold icons are displayed in the second hold icon display area 16c, the hold number "2" is displayed in the first hold number display area 16e, and the hold number "2" is displayed in the second hold number display area 16f.

As shown in Figure 70 (2), when a predetermined time has passed since the three effect symbols 16a began to change display, a chance effect CH is initiated, suggesting the possibility of winning a small prize. In the chance effect, for example, a battle effect is performed in which an ally character fights an enemy character. After the battle begins, an effect is executed in which the ally character gains the upper hand over the enemy character, and as shown in Figure 70 (3), the three effect symbols 16a are displayed in a fixed, stopped state in the pattern "333" suggesting a small prize win, and the special symbol TZ is displayed in a stopped state in the combination display pattern of "444".

As shown in Figure 70 (4), the opening effect OP for the small win game begins. In the opening effect OP, the word "RUSH BONUS" is displayed, indicating that a small win game will be played, and a halo flash is displayed behind the words, highlighting the words "RUSH BONUS." Furthermore, the special symbol TZ is displayed in a stopped state in the combination display mode of "333."

As shown in Figure 70 (5), the "RUSH BONUS" display disappears and the small win game presentation RD begins to be displayed. In the small win game presentation RD, the first right-hit image 16h continues to be displayed, and a fourth operation presentation is executed, which displays a V entry promotion image 16VH that encourages the game ball to pass through the specific area 14e of the second large winning opening 14a (V entry), and a fifth operation presentation is executed, which displays a gate passage promotion image 16GH that encourages the game ball to pass through the gate 12.

The V winning promotion image 16VH is an operation promotion image that displays, for example, a text image of "Aim for V." Note that the V winning promotion image may also be configured to display an image of a character giving operation instructions together with the text image of "Aim for V."
The V winning promotion image 16VH is displayed in the display area at the center of the screen at a display size larger than the display size of the first right-hit image 16h.

The gate passing prompt image 16GH is an operation prompt image that displays, for example, a text image of "Aim for the gate," and is displayed in a display area that does not overlap with the V winning prompt image 16VH. Note that the gate passing prompt image may also display an image of a character giving operation instructions along with the text image of "Aim for the gate."

The manner in which the launch handle 7 is operated suggested by the V winning promotion image 16VH and the manner in which the launch handle 7 is operated suggested by the gate passing promotion image 16GH are the same, but the display manner (display content, display size, etc.) of the V winning promotion image 16VH and the display manner of the gate passing promotion image 16VH are different.

On the screen, the V winning promotion image 16VH is displayed in a lit state so that it can be seen by the player, while the gate passing promotion image 16GH is displayed in an unlit state so that it is difficult for the player to see.
Incidentally, the gate passing prompt image 16GH may also be displayed in a lit state so that it can be seen by the player, similar to the V winning prompt image 16VH.

As shown in Figure 70 (6), if a game ball that has entered the second large prize opening 14a passes through the specific area 14e during a round of play, a large prize notification effect is executed, which displays a V prize notification image 16V to notify players that a large prize (type 2 large prize) has been awarded.

The V winning notification image 16V is, for example, a big win notification image that displays the letter image of "V" and a halo flash image behind the letter image.
The big win notification effect displaying the V winning notification image 16V and the fifth operation effect displaying the gate passage prompt image 16GH are executed in parallel.
On the screen, the V winning promotion image 16VH is displayed in a lit state that is visible to the player, while the gate passing promotion image 16GH is displayed in an unlit state that is difficult for the player to see.
In addition, the gate passage prompting image 16GH may also be displayed in a lit state that is visible to the player, similar to the V winning notification image 16V.

After a predetermined time has elapsed, the V winning notification image 16V disappears, and when a predetermined number of game balls enter the second large winning slot 14a and the small winning game ends, the unlit gate passage prompt image 16GH is displayed in a lit state that is visible to the player, and the special symbol TZ is displayed in a stopped "V" display mode, as shown in Figure 70 (7).

When the game ball passes through gate 12, the gate passage prompt image 16GH disappears, and as shown in Figure 70 (8), the second round of play begins, and the round performance RD for the jackpot game begins. In the round performance RD, the third operation performance is executed, which displays the big prize slot entry prompt image 16AH (a text image of "Aim for the attacker"), and the text image of "TOTAL 02000pt" is displayed, indicating the number of game balls won (paid out) by the game ball entering the big prize slot during the round of play, and the first right-hit image 16h continues to be displayed.

After that, when the round game ends, an ending effect ED starts to notify the player that the 6R jackpot game has ended, as shown in Figure 70 (9). In the ending effect, a text image of "TOTAL 12525pt" indicating the number of game balls won (paid out) during the round game is displayed, and the first right-hit image 16h continues to be displayed.
In addition, the right-hit image 16h may be temporarily hidden during the ending performance ED, and then displayed again after the ending performance ends.

As shown in Figure 70 (10), the text image "Entering RUSH" is displayed to notify the player of the entry into a time-saving mode corresponding to a low-probability time-saving game state, and a halo flash image is displayed behind the text image, and the first right-hit image 16h continues to be displayed, and further, the special pattern TZ is displayed in a stopped state in a "V" combination display mode.
Furthermore, a sixth operation effect may be executed in which the third right-hit image is displayed after the ending effect ED ends or when the notification of entry into the time-saving mode begins.

In this way, in time-saving mode, when a small win is followed by a big win, multiple operation effects are executed in parallel, but on the actual screen, the display of the prize-winning promotion image 16VH is made easier to see than the display of the gate-passing promotion image 16GHV, drawing the player's attention.

If a V hit results in a jackpot, the second right-hit image 16H1 that is displayed when a first hit occurs in normal mode is not displayed (the second operation effect is not executed), and the gate passage prompt image 16GH that is off is displayed in a lit state (the fifth operation effect is executed), making it possible to execute an operation effect corresponding to the time-saving mode, which has a shorter stay period than normal mode.

(Example of a variable effect that results in a jackpot in the time-saving mode)
FIG. 71 shows an example of the operation presentation executed when a jackpot occurs in the time-saving mode.

As shown in Figure 71 (1), in time-saving mode, the scrolling display (high-speed fluctuation) of the three effect symbols 16a begins, and the fluctuating display of the special symbol TZ begins. Furthermore, two first hold icons are displayed in the first hold icon display area 16b, one second hold icon is displayed in the second hold icon display area 16c, the hold number "2" is displayed in the first hold number display area 16e, and the hold number "1" is displayed in the second hold number display area 16f.

As shown in Figure 71 (2), the "7" effect symbol 16a temporarily stops in the left and right areas, and a normal reach effect is executed. Then, as shown in Figure 71 (3), a transition effect SH is performed in which the screen goes white. As shown in Figure 71 (4), the left and right effect symbols 16a rotate and move to the display areas near the top left and right edges of the screen, and the "7" effect symbol 16a is displayed in a reduced size, and the SPSP reach effect begins.

In the SPSP reach effect, for example, a battle effect is executed. After the battle begins, a victory confirmation effect is executed in which an ally character defeats an enemy character and wins the battle, suggesting that a jackpot has been won. Then, as shown in Figure 71 (5), the "777" effect pattern 16a, which indicates a jackpot, is temporarily displayed and then confirmed as a fixed jackpot, and the special pattern TZ is displayed in the "777" combination display mode.

As shown in Figure 71 (6), the opening effect OP for the jackpot game begins. In the opening effect OP, the word "SUPER BONUS" is displayed, indicating that a 9R jackpot game will be played, and a halo flash is displayed behind the words, highlighting the words "SUPER BONUS." Furthermore, the special symbol TZ is displayed in a stopped state with the combination "777" displayed.

As shown in Figure 71 (7), the "SUPER BONUS" display disappears and the gate prompt image 16GH is displayed (fifth operation effect). The gate passage prompt image 16GH is an operation prompt image that encourages the game ball to pass through the gate 12, and displays, for example, a text image saying "Aim for the gate."

As shown in Figure 69 (7) above, when a variable effect resulting in a jackpot is executed in normal mode, the second right-hit image 16H1 is displayed in the opening effect, but when a variable effect resulting in a jackpot is executed in time-saving mode, the second right-hit image 16H1 is not displayed in the opening effect.
Furthermore, the second right-hit image 16H1 may be displayed in the opening performance OP every time a jackpot occurs in the time-saving mode (consecutive jackpot state).

When the game ball passes through gate 12, the gate passage prompt image 16GH disappears, and as shown in Figure 71 (8), the first round of play begins, and the round performance RD begins. During the round performance RD, the third operation performance is executed, which displays the big prize slot entry prompt image 16AH (a text image of "Aim for the attacker"), and the text image of "TOTAL 0015pt" is displayed, indicating the number of game balls won (paid out) by the game ball entering the big prize slot, and the first right-hit image 16h continues to be displayed.

After that, when the round game ends, an ending effect ED starts to notify the player that the 9R jackpot game has ended, as shown in Figure 71 (9). In the ending effect, a text image of "TOTAL 00615pt" indicating the number of game balls won (paid out) during the round game is displayed, and the first right-hit image 16h continues to be displayed.
In addition, the right-hit image 16h may be temporarily hidden during the ending performance ED, and then displayed again after the ending performance ends.

As shown in Figure 71 (10), a text image of "RUSH ENTERING" is displayed to notify the player of the entry into a time-saving mode corresponding to a low-probability time-saving game state, and a halo flash image is displayed behind the text image, and the first right-hit image 16h continues to be displayed, and further, the special pattern TZ is displayed stopped in a combination display mode of "777".
Furthermore, a sixth operation effect may be executed in which the third right-hit image is displayed after the ending effect ED ends or when the notification of entry into the time-saving mode begins.

In this way, in time-saving mode, if a big win occurs without going through a small win, the second right-hit image 16H1 that is executed upon the first win in normal mode is not displayed (the second operation effect is not executed), and the gate passage prompt image 16GH is displayed (the fifth operation effect is executed), making it possible to execute operation effects according to various effect modes with different stay periods.

(Example of operation effects executed when switching from time-saving mode to normal mode)
Figure 72 shows an example of the operation presentation executed when transitioning from the time-saving mode to the normal mode.
72(1), in the time-saving mode, based on the winning of the game ball into the second starting hole 11a, the scrolling display (high-speed fluctuation) of the three effect symbols 16a is started, and the fluctuating display of the special symbol TZ is started. Also, two first reserve icons are displayed in the first reserve icon display area 16b, two second reserve icons are displayed in the second reserve icon display area 16c, the reserve number "2" is displayed in the first reserve number display area 16e, and the reserve number "2" is displayed in the second reserve number display area 16f.

After that, as shown in Figure 72 (2), the display starts to change to show the final number of remaining time-saving rounds, and then the "217" combination 16a, which indicates a miss, is temporarily displayed and then confirmed as a stopped combination, and the special pattern TZ is displayed as a stopped combination of "217".

As shown in Figure 72 (3), a text image of "RUSH END" is displayed to notify that the time-saving mode has ended. After that, as shown in Figure 72 (4), the first right-hit image 16h disappears, and a text image of "TOTAL 00515pt" is displayed, indicating the number of game balls acquired (paid out) during the time-saving mode.

As shown in Figure 72 (5), a seventh operation effect is executed in which a left-hit image 16H2 is displayed to prompt the player to shoot the game ball toward the left area 4a1 of the game area 4a, and an audio effect is executed in which the voice "Please return to left-hit" is output.
The left-hit image 16H2 is an operation prompt image that is displayed with an arrow image indicating the left direction and a text image of "left-hit" superimposed on the front of the arrow image.
The left-handed hit image 16H2 is displayed in the display area at the center of the screen at a display size that is larger than the display size of the first right-handed hit image 16h.

The operation mode of the launch handle 7 suggested by the left-hit image 16H2 is different from the operation mode of the launch handle 7 suggested by the first right-hit image 16h, the second right-hit image 16H1, the V winning promotion image 16VH, and the gate passing promotion image 16GH.
Furthermore, the display modes (display content, display size, etc.) of the operation promotion images of the left hit image 16H2, the first right hit image 16h, the second right hit image 16H1, the V winning promotion image 16VH, and the gate passing promotion image 16GH are different.

In this way, if the operation indicated by the first right-hit image 16h is performed in time-saving mode, but no jackpot is won and the display of the predetermined number of time-saving turns ends, causing a transition from time-saving mode to normal mode, the first right-hit image 16h will disappear and the left-hit image 16H2 will be displayed, making it possible to reliably understand that the mode has switched from time-saving mode to normal mode.

Furthermore, in the time-saving mode, if an operation mode (left hit) different from the operation mode suggested by the first right-hit image 16h is performed without winning a jackpot even once and the predetermined number of times the special pattern changes and is displayed is reached, and the time-saving mode switches to the normal mode, the first right-hit image 16h disappears and the left-hit image 16H2 is displayed.
In other words, in the time-saving mode, even if the operation mode suggested by the first right-hit image 16h is executed, or even if an operation mode (left-hit) different from the operation mode (right-hit) suggested by the first right-hit image 16h is executed, if the predetermined number of times the special pattern changes are displayed is reached without winning a jackpot and the time-saving mode switches to the normal mode, the first right-hit image 16h disappears and the left-hit image 16H2 is displayed.

As shown in Figures 69 to 72, the first right-hit image 16h can be displayed continuously from the time the jackpot symbol is displayed in a static state in normal mode until the transition from time-saving mode to normal mode occurs after the jackpot game ends.

(V-Punk performs the 7th operation)
As shown in Figure 70 (5), when the small win game starts, a V winning promotion image 16VH is displayed, and if the game ball that entered the second large win port 14a does not pass through the specific area 14e even after a predetermined set time has elapsed (i.e., if a V win does not occur), the small win game presentation image including the first right-hit image 16h (first operation presentation) and the V winning promotion image 16VH (fourth operation presentation) is switched to displaying a text image indicating the number of game balls won (paid out) during the small win game, and after a predetermined time has elapsed, a left-hit image 16H2 (seventh operation presentation) is displayed.
In other words, if a V win is not achieved after the V winning promotion image 16VH (fourth operation effect) is displayed, the second right-hit image 16H1 (second operation effect) or (third operation effect) will not be displayed, and the left-hit image 16H2 (fourth operation effect) will be displayed.

(b) Operation effects on a gaming machine capable of controlling a game in a time-saving gaming state)
In a gaming machine that can control play in the b time-shortened game state (so-called "Yu-time state"), when the variable display of a losing first special symbol (or the variable display of a losing first special symbol and the variable display of a losing second special symbol) is executed a predetermined number of times (for example, 750 times) in succession in the low-probability non-time-shortened game state (normal game state), the game state is transitioned from the non-time-shortened game state to the time-shortened game state (however, the probability game state remains in the low-probability game state) (hereinafter referred to as the b time-shortened game state).

b) In the time-saving mode corresponding to the time-saving game state, a first operation presentation is executed that displays a first right-hit image.
b In the time-saving mode corresponding to the time-saving game state, the operation presentation executed when a small win occurs and when a big win (type 2 big win) occurs via a small win is the same as the presentation example shown in Figure 70.
In addition, the operation presentation executed when a jackpot (first type jackpot) occurs in the time-saving mode corresponding to the b time-saving gaming state is the same as the presentation example shown in Figure 71.

b In the time-saving mode corresponding to the time-saving game state, if a jackpot is not won even once and the display of the changing patterns for the predetermined number of time-saving times has finished, transitioning from the time-saving mode to the normal mode, the first right-hit image 16h will disappear (ending the first operation effect) and the seventh operation effect will be executed, displaying the left-hit image 16H2.

(Operation effects on gaming machines that can control games in a probability game state)
In a gaming machine that can control play in a high-probability time-saving game state (probable variable game state) after the end of a jackpot game, if a jackpot is never won in the probable variable game state and the display of changing patterns corresponding to the number of high-probability awards and the number of time-saving games ends, and the game transitions to a low-probability non-time-saving game state (normal game state), the game transitions from the probable variable mode corresponding to the probable variable game state to the normal mode corresponding to the normal game state, and the execution of the first operation presentation displaying the first right-hit image 16h ends, and the seventh operation presentation displaying the left-hit image 16H2 is executed.

(The conditions for the complete function to operate are met while the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed.)
FIG. 73 is a timing chart showing the case where the complete function activation condition is met while the big win symbol is stopped and displayed.
Figure 74 shows an example of a presentation in which a complete function activation notification image is displayed while a jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed.

As shown in FIG. 73, at the time T0, the complete function operation warning notification has been executed before the time T0, and therefore the complete function operation warning notification continues to be executed.
At timing T0, the counter value of the reference value counter is equal to or greater than "94900".

Specifically, as shown in Figure 74 (1), the complete function activation warning notification image CK is displayed in front of the variable display image and background image of the performance pattern 16a in a display area near the top center of the display section.
Furthermore, since the remaining value displayed in the reference value counter of the complete function activation warning notification image CK is "100", the entire notification image CK is displayed blinking.

As shown in Figure 74 (2), during a normal reach effect, the complete function activation warning notification image CK is displayed in a flashing manner in a display area near the top center of the display unit, in front of the normal reach effect image and not overlapping with the normal reach effect image.

As shown in Figures 74 (3) and (4), during the SP Reach and SPSP Reach performances, a complete function activation warning notification image CK is flashing in front of the SP/SPSP Reach performance image and in a display area near the top center of the display unit, overlapping with part of the SP/SPSP Reach performance image.

As shown in Figure 73, at timing T1, when the jackpot symbol is displayed as a fixed stop, the condition device is activated. The complete function activation warning notification continues even when the jackpot symbol is displayed as a fixed stop.

Specifically, as shown in Figure 74 (5), while the jackpot pattern is displayed as confirmed and stopped, the complete function activation warning notification image CK is displayed in a flashing manner in a display area near the top center of the display section, in front of the jackpot pattern image and the first right-hit image 16h (first operation presentation) and not overlapping with the jackpot pattern image and the first right-hit image 16h (first operation presentation).
In addition, during the SP/SPSP reach effect or the fixed stop display of the jackpot symbol, the complete function activation warning notification image CK may be displayed in a state superimposed on the front of the jackpot symbol image or the SP/SPSP reach effect image. In this case, the complete function activation warning notification image CK is displayed in a transparent state, so that both the SP/SPSP reach effect image and the jackpot symbol image can be seen.

As shown in Figure 73, when the complete function activation condition is met (the counter value of the reference value counter reaches the second reference value of 95,000) at timing T2 during the fixed stop display of the jackpot symbol (symbol determination time) and the complete function activation flag is turned ON, the complete function activation warning notification is terminated and a complete function activation advance notification is executed. Execution of the complete function activation notification is postponed until the jackpot game is over.

Specifically, as shown in Figure 74 (5A), the complete function activation warning notification image CK is erased, and the complete function activation advance notification image CY is displayed superimposed on the front of the jackpot symbol image. Since the complete function activation advance notification image CY is displayed in a transparent state, the jackpot symbol image can also be seen.
The first right-hit image 16h (first operation effect) is displayed visibly in a display area that does not overlap with the complete function activation preview notification image CY until the notification of the complete function activation is executed.

As shown in Figure 73, the complete function activation advance notification continues to be executed even during the opening game.
Specifically, as shown in Figure 74 (6A), during the opening game, the complete function activation notice image CY is displayed superimposed on the front of the opening effect OP image. Subsequently, as shown in Figure 74 (7A), the complete function activation notice image CY is displayed superimposed on the front of the second right-hit image 16H1 (second operation effect). Since the complete function activation notice image CY is displayed in a transparent state, both the opening effect OP image and the second right-hit image 16H1 (second operation effect) are visible.
The first right-hit image 16h (first operation effect) is displayed visibly in a display area that does not overlap with the complete function activation notification image CY.

As shown in Figure 73, when the game ball passes through gate 12 at timing T3, the role link device (role-playing device) is activated and a round of play begins. The complete function activation advance notification continues to be executed during the round of play.

Specifically, as shown in Figure 74 (8A), during a round of play, the complete function activation notice image CY is displayed superimposed on top of the round effect RD image and the large prize slot winning promotion image 16AH (third operation effect). Because the complete function activation notice image CY is displayed in a transparent state, both the round effect RD image and the large prize slot winning promotion image 16AH can be seen.

As shown in Figure 73, at timing T4, the round game ends and the ending game begins. The complete function activation advance notification continues to be executed during the ending game.

Specifically, as shown in Figure 74 (9A), during ending play, the complete function activation notice image CY is displayed superimposed on top of the ending performance RD image (the text image "TOTAL 0615pt"). Because the complete function activation notice image CY is displayed in a transparent state, the ending performance RD image can also be seen.

As shown in Figure 73, when the ending game ends at timing T5, the complete function activation advance notification is terminated, the complete function activation notification is executed, and functions related to the progress of the game are stopped.

Specifically, as shown in Figure 74 (10A), the complete function activation notification image CY and the first right-hit image 16h (first operation effect) disappear, and the complete function activation notification image CS is displayed on the entire screen of the display unit.

(The conditions for the complete function are met while the small winning symbol is displayed as a fixed stop symbol.)
FIG. 75 is a timing chart showing the case where the complete function activation condition is met while the small winning symbol is stopped and displayed.
Figure 76 shows an example of a presentation in which a notification image announcing the activation of the complete function is displayed while a small winning symbol is stopped and displayed.

As shown in FIG. 75, at the time T0, the complete function operation warning notification has been executed before the time T0, and therefore the complete function operation warning notification continues to be executed.
At timing T0, the counter value of the reference value counter is equal to or greater than "94900".

As shown in Figure 76 (1), the complete function activation warning notification image CK is displayed in front of the changing display image of the performance pattern 16a and the background image, in a display area near the top center of the display section.
Furthermore, since the remaining value displayed in the reference value counter of the complete function activation warning notification image CK is "100", the entire notification image CK is displayed blinking.
In addition, the first right-hit image 16h (first operation effect) is displayed visibly in a display area that does not overlap with the complete function activation warning notification image CK until the notification of the complete function activation is executed.

As shown in Figure 76 (2), during a chance effect, a complete function activation warning notification image CK is flashing in front of the chance effect image and in a display area near the top center of the display unit, overlapping with part of the chance effect image.

As shown in Figure 75, at timing T1, the small win symbol is displayed as a fixed stop. The complete function activation warning notification continues even after the small win symbol is displayed as a fixed stop.

As shown in Figure 76 (3), while the small win symbol is displayed as confirmed and stopped, the complete function activation warning notification image CK flashes in a display area near the top center of the display unit, in front of the small win symbol image and the first right-hit image 16h (first operation effect) and not overlapping with the small win symbol image and the first right-hit image 16h (first operation effect).

In addition, during chance effects or when the confirmed small win symbol is displayed, the complete function activation warning notification image CK may be displayed superimposed on top of the chance effect image or small win symbol image. In this case, the complete function activation warning notification image CK is displayed transparently, so both the chance effect image and the small win symbol image are visible.

As shown in Figure 75, at timing T2 during the fixed stop display of the small win symbol (symbol determination time), if the complete function activation condition is met (the counter value of the reference value counter reaches the second reference value of "95,000") and the complete function activation flag is turned ON, the complete function activation advance notification will end and the complete function activation advance notification will be executed. Execution of the complete function activation notification will be postponed until the big win game has ended via the small win game.

Specifically, as shown in Figure 76 (3A), the complete function activation warning notification image CK is erased, and the complete function activation advance notification image CY is displayed in a state where it is superimposed on the front of the small win symbol image. Since the complete function activation advance notification image CY is displayed in a transparent state, the small win symbol image can also be seen.
The first right-hit image 16h (first operation effect) continues to be displayed visibly in a display area that does not overlap with the notification image CY for the activation of the complete function until the notification image CS for the activation of the complete function is displayed.

As shown in Figure 75, the complete function activation notice continues to be displayed even during small win games.

Specifically, as shown in Figure 76 (4A), during small win play, the complete function activation notification image CY is displayed superimposed on top of the opening effect OP image. Next, as shown in Figure 76 (5A), during small win play, the complete function activation notification image CY is displayed superimposed on top of the V prize winning promotion image 16VH (fourth operation effect) and the gate pass promotion image 16GH (fifth operation effect). Because the complete function activation notification image CY is displayed in a transparent state, both the V prize winning promotion image 16VH (fourth operation effect) and the gate pass promotion image 16GH (fifth operation effect) are visible.

As shown in Figure 75, when the gaming ball passes through the specific area 14e (V entry) at timing T3, the condition device is activated, and a jackpot game (type 2 jackpot game) that is an extension of the small jackpot game is executed after the small jackpot game ends. The complete function activation advance notification continues to be executed.

Specifically, as shown in Figure 76 (6A), during a small win game, the complete function activation notice image CY is displayed superimposed on top of the V winning notice image 16V and the gate passage prompt image 16GH (fifth operation effect). Because the complete function activation notice image CY is displayed in a transparent state, both the V winning notice image 16V and the gate passage prompt image 16GH (fifth operation effect) are visible.

As shown in Figure 76 (7A), after the small win game ends, the complete function activation notice image CY is displayed superimposed on top of the gate passage prompt image 16GH (fifth operation effect). Because the complete function activation notice image CY is displayed in a transparent state, the gate passage prompt image 16GH (fifth operation effect) can also be seen.

As shown in Figure 75, when the game ball passes through gate 12 at timing T4, the role link device (role-playing device) is activated and a round of play begins. The complete function activation advance notification continues to be executed during the round of play.

Specifically, as shown in Figure 76 (8A), during a round of play, the complete function activation warning notification image CK is displayed superimposed on top of the round performance RD image and the large prize slot winning promotion image 16AH (third operation performance). The complete function activation advance notification image CY is displayed in a transparent state, so both the round performance RD image and the large prize slot winning promotion image 16AH (third operation performance) are visible.

As shown in Figure 75, at timing T5, the round game ends and the ending game begins. The complete function activation advance notification continues to be executed during the ending game.

Specifically, as shown in Figure 76 (9A), during ending play, the complete function activation warning notification image CK is displayed superimposed on top of the ending performance RD image (the text image "TOTAL 12525pt"). The complete function activation advance notification image CY is displayed in a transparent state, so the ending performance RD image can also be seen.

As shown in Figure 75, at timing T5, when the ending game ends, the notification of the complete function activation notice is terminated, the complete function activation notification is executed, and functions related to the progress of the game are stopped.

Specifically, as shown in Figure 76 (10A), the complete function activation notification image CY and the first right-hit image 16h (first operation effect) disappear, and the complete function activation notification image CS is displayed on the entire screen of the display unit.

(The conditions for the complete function to activate are met during the opening game.)
FIG. 77 is a timing chart showing the case where the complete function activation condition is met during the opening game.
Figure 78 shows an example of a presentation in which a notification image regarding the complete function is displayed during the opening game.

As shown in FIG. 77, at the time T0, the complete function operation warning notification has been executed before the time T0, and therefore the complete function operation warning notification continues to be executed.
At timing T0, the counter value of the reference value counter is equal to or greater than "94900".

As shown in Figure 78 (1), the complete function activation warning notification image CK is displayed in front of the changing display image of the currently displayed performance pattern 16a and the background image, and in a display area near the top center of the display section.
Furthermore, since the remaining value displayed in the reference value counter of the complete function activation warning notification image CK is "100", the entire notification image CK is displayed blinking.

As shown in Figure 78 (2), during a normal reach effect, the complete function activation warning notification image CK is displayed in a flashing manner in front of the normal reach effect image and in a display area near the top center of the display unit that does not overlap with the normal reach effect image.

As shown in Figures 78 (3) and (4), during the SP Reach and SPSP Reach performances, a complete function activation warning notification image CK is displayed in front of the SP/SPSP Reach performance image and flashes in a display area near the top center of the display unit, overlapping with part of the SP/SPSP Reach performance image.

As shown in Figure 77, at timing T1, the jackpot symbol is displayed as a fixed stop. The complete function activation warning notification continues even while the jackpot symbol is displayed as a fixed stop.

Specifically, as shown in Figure 78 (5), while the jackpot pattern is displayed as confirmed and stopped, the complete function activation warning notification image CK is displayed in a flashing manner in a display area near the top center of the display unit, in front of the jackpot pattern image and the first right-hit image 16h (first operation presentation) and not overlapping with the jackpot pattern image and the first right-hit image 16h (first operation presentation).
In addition, during the SP/SPSP reach effect or the fixed stop display of the jackpot symbol, the complete function activation warning notification image CK may be displayed in a state where it is superimposed on the front of the SP/SPSP reach effect image or the jackpot symbol image. In this case, the complete function activation warning notification image CK is displayed in a transparent state, so that both the SP/SPSP reach effect image and the jackpot symbol image can be seen.

As shown in Figure 77, the opening game begins at timing T2. The complete function activation warning notification continues during the opening game.

Specifically, as shown in Figure 78 (6), during the opening game, a complete function activation warning notification image CK is displayed in front of the opening effect OP image and the first right-hit image 16h (first operation effect) and flashes in a display area near the top of the display unit that does not overlap with the first right-hit image 16h (first operation effect). Next, as shown in Figure 78 (7), a complete function activation warning notification image CK is displayed in front of the second right-hit image 16H1 (second operation effect) and flashes in a display area near the top of the display unit that does not overlap with the second right-hit image 16H1 (second operation effect).

Furthermore, during the opening game, the complete function activation warning notification image CK may be displayed superimposed on top of the opening effect OP image and the second right-hit image 16H1 (second operation effect). Because the complete function activation warning notification image CK is displayed in a transparent state, both the opening effect OP image and the second right-hit image 16H1 (second operation effect) can be seen.

As shown in Figure 77, at timing T3 during opening play, when the complete function activation condition is met (the counter value of the reference value counter reaches the second reference value of "95,000") and the complete function activation flag is turned ON, the complete function activation warning notification is terminated and a complete function activation advance notification is executed. Execution of the complete function activation notification is postponed until the jackpot game in question is over.

Specifically, as shown in Figure 78 (7A), during the opening game, the complete function activation warning notification image CK disappears, and the complete function activation notice image CK is displayed superimposed on the front of the second right-hit image 16H1 (second operation effect). Since the complete function activation notice image CY is displayed in a transparent state, the second right-hit image 16H1 can also be seen.
The first right-hit image 16h (first operation effect) is displayed visibly in a display area that does not overlap with the complete function activation advance notification image CY until the complete function activation notification image CS is displayed.

As shown in Figure 77, when the game ball passes through gate 12, the role link device (role-playing device) is activated and a round of play begins. The complete function activation advance notification continues to be issued during the round of play.

Specifically, as shown in Figure 78 (8A), during a round of play, the complete function activation warning notification image CK is displayed superimposed on top of the round presentation RD image and the large prize slot winning promotion image 16AH (third operation presentation). The complete function activation advance notification image CY is displayed in a transparent state, so both the round presentation RD image and the large prize slot winning promotion image 16AH (third operation presentation) are visible.

As shown in Figure 77, at timing T4, the round game ends and the ending game begins. The complete function activation advance notification continues to be executed during the ending game.

As shown in Figure 78 (9A), during ending play, the complete function activation notice image CY is displayed in the display area at the center of the display unit, superimposed on top of the ending effect RD image (the text image "TOTAL 0615pt"). Because the complete function activation notice image CY is displayed in a transparent state, the ending effect RD image can also be seen.

As shown in Figure 77, when the ending game ends at timing T5, the complete function activation advance notification ends, the complete function activation notification is executed, and functions related to the progress of the game are stopped.

Specifically, as shown in Figure 78 (10A), the complete function activation notification image CY and the first right-hit image 16h (first operation effect) disappear, and the complete function activation notification image CS is displayed on the entire screen of the display unit.

(The conditions for the complete function to be activated are met during a round of play.)
Figure 79 shows a timing chart when the complete function activation conditions are met during a round of play.
Figure 80 shows an example of a presentation when a notification image regarding the complete function is displayed during a round of play.

As shown in FIG. 79, at the timing T0, the complete function operation warning notification has been executed before the timing T0, and therefore the complete function operation warning notification continues to be executed.
At timing T0, the counter value of the reference value counter is equal to or greater than "94900".
Incidentally, since (1) to (7) in FIG. 80 are similar to (1) to (7) in FIG. 78, the explanation thereof will be omitted.

As shown in Figure 79, when the game ball passes through gate 12 at timing T2, the role link device (role-playing device) is activated and a round of play begins. The complete function activation advance notification continues to be executed during the round of play.

Specifically, as shown in Figure 80 (8), during a round of play, the complete function activation warning notification image CK is flashing in front of the round effect RD image and the large prize slot winning promotion image 16AH (third operation effect) in a display area near the top of the display unit that does not overlap with part of the round effect RD image or the large prize slot winning promotion image 16AH (third operation effect).

Furthermore, during a round of play, the complete function activation warning notification image CK may be displayed superimposed on top of the round effect RD image and the large prize slot winning promotion image 16AH (third operation effect). The complete function activation notification image CY is displayed in a transparent state, so both the round effect RD image and the large prize slot winning promotion image 16AH can be seen.

As shown in Figure 79, during a round of play at timing T3, when the complete function activation condition is met (the counter value of the reference value counter reaches the second reference value of "95,000") and the complete function activation flag is turned ON, the complete function activation warning notification is terminated and a complete function activation notice notification is issued. Execution of the complete function activation notification is postponed until the end of the jackpot game.

Specifically, as shown in Figure 80 (8A), during a round of play, the complete function activation warning notification image CK disappears, and the complete function activation advance notification image CY is displayed superimposed on the round performance RD image and the large prize slot winning promotion image 16AH. Since the complete function activation advance notification image CY is displayed in a transparent state, both the round performance RD image and the large prize slot winning promotion image 16AH can be seen.
The first right-hit image 16h (first operation effect) is displayed visibly in a display area that does not overlap with the complete function activation advance notification image CY until the complete function activation notification image CS is displayed.

As shown in Figure 79, at timing T4, the round game ends and the ending game begins. The complete function activation advance notification continues to be executed even during the ending game.

Specifically, as shown in Figure 80 (9A), even during ending play, the complete function activation notice image CY is displayed superimposed on top of the ending performance RD image (the text image "TOTAL 0615pt"). Because the complete function activation notice image CY is displayed in a transparent state, the ending performance RD image can also be seen.

As shown in Figure 79, when the ending game ends at timing T5, the complete function activation advance notification ends, a notification of the complete function activation is issued, and functions related to the progress of the game are stopped.

Specifically, as shown in Figure 80 (10A), the complete function activation notification image CY and the first right-hit image 16h (first operation effect) disappear, and the complete function activation notification image CS is displayed on the entire screen of the display unit.

(The condition for the complete function to be activated is met while the left-hand shot image is displayed.)
Figure 81 shows an example of a presentation in which an information image indicating the activation of the complete function is displayed while a left-hit image is being displayed.
When the game is controlled in the time-saving game state, the complete function activation warning condition is met (the counter value of the reference value counter reaches the first reference value of "90,000") and the complete function activation warning notification is executed, after which the counter value of the reference value counter is updated to "94,900" or more, the remaining value display of the reference value counter on the complete function activation warning notification image CK is updated to "100", and the entire notification image CK flashes.

After that, as shown in Figure 81 (2), while the losing symbol is displayed as confirmed and stopped, the complete function activation warning notification image CK will flash in a display area near the top center of the display unit, in front of the losing symbol image and the first right-hit image 16h (first operation effect) and not overlapping with the losing symbol image and the first right-hit image 16h (first operation effect).

As shown in Figure 81 (3), while a text image notifying that the time-saving mode has ended is displayed, a complete function activation warning image CK is flashing in a display area near the top center of the display unit, in front of the text image and the first right-hit image 16h (first operation effect) and not overlapping with the text image and the first right-hit image 16h (first operation effect).

As shown in Figure 81 (4), while the text image "TOTAL 00515pt" indicating the number of game balls acquired (paid out) during the time-saving mode is displayed, the complete function activation warning notification image CK is displayed in a flashing manner in front of the text image and in a display area near the top center of the display unit, not overlapping with the text image.

As shown in Figure 81 (5), when the game is controlled from the time-saving game state to the normal game state, and while the left-hit image 16H2 (seventh operation display) is displayed, the complete function activation warning notification image CK is displayed in a flashing manner in a display area near the top center of the display unit, in front of the left-hit image 16H2 (seventh operation display) and not overlapping with the left-hit image 16H2 (seventh operation display).
The complete function activation warning image CK may be displayed superimposed on the left-hit image 16H2 (seventh operation effect). In this case, the complete function activation warning image CK is displayed in a transparent state, so that the left-hit image 16H2 can also be seen.

As shown in Figure 81 (6), if the complete function activation condition is met (the counter value of the reference value counter reaches the second reference value of "95,000") while the left-hit image 16H2 (seventh operation effect) is displayed, the complete function activation flag is turned ON and a complete function activation notification is executed. Specifically, the complete function activation warning notification image CK and left-hit image 16H2 disappear from the screen, and the complete function activation notification image CS is displayed.

Furthermore, in the time-saving game mode after the end of a jackpot game, if the complete function activation conditions are met (the counter value of the reference value counter reaches the second reference value of 95,000) while the pattern change display for a miss or jackpot is on, the complete function activation warning notification image CK, the first right-hit image 16h (first operation effect), and the pattern change display image will disappear, and the complete function activation notification image CS will be displayed.

This embodiment is not limited to pachinko gaming machines, but can also be used in slot machines. It can also be used in jan-ball gaming machines and arrange-ball gaming machines.

The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims, not the above description, and is intended to include all modifications that are equivalent in meaning to and within the scope of the claims.

1 gaming machine 7 launch handle 16 image display device 130 performance control board 130m performance control unit 16h first operation performance 16H1 second operation performance 16AH third operation performance 16VH fourth operation performance 16GH fifth operation performance 16H2 seventh operation performance

Claims (1)

a game control means for controlling the progress of a game;
an operating means operated by a player;
and a performance execution means capable of executing a performance display by a display means according to the progress of a game and a performance operation of a performance role between a retreat position and an advance position ,
The game control means
a game information updating means for updating a specific value, which is a value derived based on the amount of game value granted to a player as the game progresses and the amount of game value used, and which is an increase in the game value from the point when the game value has decreased the most when a game result is obtained after the power is turned on ;
and a game stop means for stopping the variation of the special symbols and stopping the progress of the game when a specific condition is met in which the specific value updated by the game information update means reaches a predetermined value ,
The performance execution means
It is possible to execute a predetermined operation performance that suggests the operation mode of the operation means, a predetermined notification performance according to the specific value , and a role performance in which the role performance device performs a performance operation ,
In a first event in the progress of a game, a first operation presentation is executed, and then a second operation presentation is executed;
In a second event in the progress of the game, after the second operation presentation is executed, a third operation presentation is executed;
If the specific condition is satisfied during the execution of the third operation presentation, the third operation presentation becomes invisible to the player,
If the specific condition is satisfied during execution of the second operation presentation , the second operation presentation is continued in a state where it can be seen by the player;
When the specific condition is satisfied while the special device performance is being performed during the execution of the first operation performance, the special device is returned to the retracted position using specific operation data different from the operation data used when the special device performance is normally performed, and the first operation performance becomes invisible to the player .